Diving saves are one of the most spectacular and challenging skills for a goalkeeper. They require agility, courage, and timing to reach and stop shots that are heading towards the corners of the goal. Diving saves can make the difference between winning and losing a game, as they can deny clear scoring opportunities for the opposition. In this article, we will look at some of the common types of diving saves that goalkeepers use and how they help them perform better.
The Collapse Dive
The collapse dive is used when the ball is coming low and to the side of the goalkeeper and they cannot reach it with their feet. It is called the collapse dive because the goalkeeper collapses or falls to one side while reaching for the ball. The collapse dive helps the goalkeeper to cover more ground and make saves that would otherwise be impossible. It also minimizes the risk of injury by landing on a soft surface.
To perform the collapse dive, the goalkeeper should:
• Keep their eyes on the ball and move their feet to get close to it.
• Push off with their back foot and dive sideways towards the ball.
• Extend their arm towards the ball and try to catch it with one hand or both hands.
• Land on their hip and shoulder and roll over to absorb the impact.
• Hold on to the ball or parry it away from danger.
The Extended Dive
The extended dive is used when the ball is coming high or low and slightly out of reach of the goalkeeper. It is called the extended dive because the goalkeeper extends their body and arm as far as possible to touch the ball. The extended dive helps the goalkeeper to reach shots that are heading towards the top or bottom corners of the goal. It also shows determination and confidence in making a save.
To perform the extended dive, the goalkeeper should:
• Keep their eyes on the ball and move their feet to get behind it.
• Push off with their back foot and dive diagonally towards the ball.
• Extend their arm towards the ball and try to catch it with one hand or both hands.
• Land on their side and slide along the ground to reduce friction.
• Hold on to the ball or tip it over or around the goal.
The Overhand Dive
The overhand dive is used when the ball is coming high and slightly behind or above the goalkeeper. It is called the overhand dive because the goalkeeper uses their top hand to reach for the ball. The overhand dive helps the goalkeeper to adjust their position and angle quickly and make a save that looks impossible. It also demonstrates flexibility and reflexes in making a save.
To perform the overhand dive, the goalkeeper should:
• Keep their eyes on the ball and move their feet to get under it.
• Push off with their front foot and jump backwards towards the ball.
• Use their top hand to tip or catch the ball over or behind their head.
• Land on their back or side and roll over to protect themselves.
• Hold on to the ball or tip it over or around the goal.
These are some of the basic diving saves that goalkeepers use in different scenarios. By mastering these techniques, goalkeepers can improve their agility, courage, and timing on the pitch.