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Brian Mullan demonstrates his passing skills. (Tom Shea/Houston Dynamo) |
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Training Tip #1: The art of crossing the ball
There are many different types of crosses. I use two: A bending ball and a low driven cross. In order to get the ball to curve it requires you to strike the bottom corner of the ball. With all crosses it is important to keep your ankle locked, and to approach the ball at an angle.
A cross is basically just a long pass from one side of the field into the middle of the field. They are very effective as they provide defenders with significant challenges. When the ball is up in the air, it's up for grabs. A defender may head the ball clear or a forward head it into the goal. |
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A goalkeeper who is unable to claim the ball out of air provides the offensive team with many opportunities to score from either direct contact of a loose ball inside the penalty box. Teams able get the ball into the "mixer" or penalty box will ultimately reap the benefits of the added pressure on their opponents.
The main goal of a cross is to get the ball across the field to an on-rushing forward who can either head it into the goal, or control it and fire a shot towards the goal.
Final Comment: Remember that a forward is not going to score a goal every single time, but if you continue to deliver well placed passes across the face of your opponent's goal, good things will happen.
Good luck with your team this season and we'll see you at a Dynamo game.
Brian Mullan
Midfielder
Houston Dynamo and USA |
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| Velocity Sports Tip |
Super Fast Feet
Improve your foot speed and eye foot coordination with a simple "quick feet drill." You can use a step or a line for this. Here's what you do with a step: left foot step up, right foot step up then left foot step down, right foot step down or when using a line you will right forward step, left forward step, right backward step, left backward step, alternating feet. This should be done continuously for 20 seconds, as fast as your feet can move, then 20 seconds rest. Stay committed to this drill and you're guaranteed to be quicker with and without the ball.
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Youth Soccer Kickoff Pack
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Club Nights
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Get four Sideline seats to the Sept. 1 match vs. the
Kansas City Wizards, two Dynamo soccer balls
& one parking pass for just $59.95 (+ $7 s/h).
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Attention, Players and Parents: Please check with your team's coach or team manager for more information on your club night at the Dynamo this season.
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Call 713-276-7500 |
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