Penalty tips: for the takers

Penalty shootouts aren’t easy for anyone. Any player that puts themselves forward to take a spot kick is brave to do so.

Here’s some advice you can offer them to support them through the event.

PICK YOUR SPOT

Encourage players to make a decision and stick to it. Going bottom right corner? Go there. And put all of your efforts into doing it well. Changing their mind before they take it, or on the run up, will only serve to confuse them and mean less focus on the actual execution.

TAKE CONTROL

A lot of different thoughts go through a player’s mind in the moments prior to taking a penalty. Remind your players that they are in control of the ball and not to rush the process. Players who take their time and face the goalkeeper through the preparation of the kick are more likely to perform successfully.

THINK BACK

Get your players to think of examples when they have successfully scored penalty kicks in the past, be it in training or a match situation. Not only will this build confidence, but also help the player hone in on the technique required to beat the goalkeeper and hit the back of the net. 

DO WHAT YOU KNOW

When going into a penalty shootout, urge your players not to over-complicate what is ultimately a simple skill. They should use a ball striking technique they are comfortable with, whether that be using the inside of the foot to place it low, the instep and leaning back to lift it a bit, or the laces to put power through it.

TAKE A DEEP BREATH

To aid a player’s confidence from the spot, get them to take deep breaths as they prepare for the kick. This will help reduce tension in a pressure situation and help them focus on the task in hand. Use positive key words in your instructions to your penalty takers, as this can help maintain focus and belief. 

REMEMBER HOW BRAVE YOU ARE

Let them know that score or miss, they’ve done a great thing for their team in agreeing to take a penalty. The pressure is off their shoulders. And whatever the outcome is, it’s a learning opportunity, and you’ve got their back.