What To Do When You're In A Soccer Wall

When your opponents have a free kick within shooting range of your goal, it is standard practice to create a defensive wall. The wall typically consists of two to five players, depending on the distance and angle of the free kick in relation to your goal. The FIFA Laws of the Game dictate players must be 10 yards from the free kick taker. The referee will keep a close eye on the distance, so don't try to close the gap before your opponent has kicked the ball.

Communication

Communication is vital when you're forming a wall. Listen to your goalkeeper's instructions, as it is his job to position the wall correctly. While building the wall, you or one of your teammates should stand in the wall facing the goalkeeper. This will allow you to communicate more freely with your goalie, shuffling the wall to the left or right depending on the goalie's verbal commands or hand signals.

Positioning

Your goalkeeper will tell you how many players he wants in the wall, as well as its exact positioning. According to TalkFootball.co.uk, your goalie will normally use the wall to cover one side of the goal, allowing him to focus on guarding the less protected side. An offset wall also gives the goalie a better view of the free kick taker. Your own position in the wall generally depends on your height. Taller players are more effective in the center of the wall or at the end farthest from the free kick taker, making it harder for the kicker to curl the ball over the wall. Stand shoulder to shoulder with your teammates. The wall will not be effective if there are obvious gaps.

Protection

Protect the delicate parts of your body once the wall is in place. Soccer balls travel at high velocities over 10 yards, and it is your job to remain in the line of fire. Male players often place their hands in front of their shorts to protect their private parts. Female players sometimes cross one arm over their chest area. Do not use your arms or hands to block the ball intentionally even if it is heading straight at you. This will result in a handball and another free kick or, worse still, a penalty kick.

Action

It may seem appropriate to jump when your opponent strikes the free kick. It is better, however, if the players in the wall do not jump, says the English PFA's GiveMeFootball.com. By jumping, you will leave space under the wall through which a low driven ball could pass. Instead, keep your footing while stretching your body to its full height. Do not break away from the wall before your opponent strikes the free kick. The players in the wall need to act as a solid unit to increase the chances of blocking a direct shot on goal.

Awareness

Your opponents may use a strategic set piece routine to create space for a shot. The free kick taker does not have to shoot directly at the goal, giving him the option of a short pass to a teammate. This could alter the angle of the shot radically, possibly rendering the wall obsolete. Always be aware of such ploys and be prepared to break away from the wall to charge down the new threat.