In soccer, it seems relevant to understand the relationship between the ball recovering and the subsequent success or failure of attacking play. However, few studies have considered the links between the type of ball recovery in different pitch zones, the competition stages and the overall teams success. The present study aims to analyze the attacks (n = 1619) carried out by the semi-finalist teams in the 2010 FIFA World Cup in order to explore ball recovery patterns as a performance indicator. SoccerEye observational instrument, SoccerEye recording software, Sequential Data Interchange Standard-Generalized Sequential Querier (SDIS-GSEQ) and SPSS analytic software—one-way analysis of variance, two-way analysis of variance and regressions—were applied. Direct ball recovery, in specific by interception and defensive behavior followed by a pass, was the mostly frequent behavior, with the later inducing attacking play efficacy (p<0.017). Differences were detected between the group and play-off stages with reg...

/pdf/ball-recovery-patterns-as-a-performance-indicator-in-elite-3mt0ebwy62.pdf

Ball recovery patterns as a performance indicator in elite soccer

Goalkeepers are typically the last defensive line for soccer teams aiming to minimise goals being conceded, with match rules permitting ball handling within a specific area. Goalkeepers are also involved in initiating some offensive plays, and typically remain in close proximity to the goal line while covering ~ 50% of the match distances of outfield players; hence, the competitive and training demands of goalkeepers are unique to their specialised position. Indeed, isolated performance tests differentiate goalkeepers from outfield players in multiple variables. With a view to informing future research, this review summarised currently available literature reporting goalkeeper responses to: (1) match play (movement and skilled/technical demands) and (2) isolated performance assessments (strength, power, speed, aerobic capacity, joint range of motion). Literature searching and screening processes yielded 26 eligible records and highlighted that goalkeepers covered ~ 4-6 km on match day whilst spending ~ 98% of time at low-movement intensities. The most decisive moments are the 2-10 saves·match-1 performed, which often involve explosive actions (e.g. dives, jumps). Whilst no between-half performance decrements have been observed in professional goalkeepers, possible transient changes over shorter match epochs remain unclear. Isolated performance tests confirm divergent profiles between goalkeepers and outfield players (i.e. superior jump performance, reduced [Formula: see text]2max values, slower sprint times), and the training of soccer goalkeepers is typically completed separately from outfield positions with a focus primarily on technical or explosive drills performed within confined spaces. Additional work is needed to examine the physiological responses to goalkeeper-specific training and match activities to determine the efficacy of current preparatory strategies.

/pdf/match-play-and-performance-test-responses-of-soccer-4zno5a904n.pdf

Match-Play and Performance Test Responses of Soccer Goalkeepers: A Review of Current Literature.

The aim of the current study was to examine match performance of elite goalkeepers considering three situational variables (opposition, outcome and location). Match performance statistics of 46 goalkeepers who played 744 full matches during season 2012-13 in the Spanish First Division Professional Football League were analyzed. Results indicated that there were only three performance indicators (Fouls Drawn, Fouls Committed and Tackles) that showed no differences among goalkeepers of high, intermediate and low levels of team. The sole indicator was Saves which differed for goalkeepers of all three team levels and also the sole varied indicator for goalkeepers of intermediate and low level teams when facing different opponent levels. High level team goalkeepers showed differences in none of their match performance indicators during matches won, drawn and lost. However, Saves (F2,244=6.459, p<0.01, ηp2=0.05) was the sole indicator which differed for low level team goalkeepers when the final outcome is diffe...

http://multi-science.atypon.com/doi/pdf/10.1260/1747-9541.10.4.669

Match Performance Profiles of Goalkeepers of Elite Football Teams

The aim of the session is to identify and discuss the role of sports science within elite soccer performance and training. The exercise pattern of soccer can be described as dynamic, random and intermittent to an extent which makes physical conditioning of players a complex process. This provides a huge challenge for coaches to condition players for the specific requirements of the game while also posing the dilemma as to which factors should be prioritised at different phases of the season. This process is further complicated by the inclusion of short-term events such as major soccer championships either in the on- or off-season.

The session will explore the physiological and psychological demands of match play and provide an overview of the causes of fatigue. The role of routine exercise testing during the season will be examined and practical perspectives will be provided to demonstrate the link between sports science and performance in English professional soccer. The session will conclude with a sports science perspective on the acute requirement of preparing for and supporting the New Zealand team's participation at the XXIXth Olympiad.

Science in soccer

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of modifications in field size, number of players, and goal size on the goalkeeper's actions in competition in male youth soccer (n = 4) (under-12...

Effect of modifications in rules in competition on participation of male youth goalkeepers in soccer

Much of the existing goalkeeper (GK) research is based around GK’s performance but not with a match analysis theme. Research has focused on physiology, psychology and injury prevention. Performance...

Marcus Seaton

Papers

Distribution competence of a football clubs goalkeepers