Originally Posted by
gazan
I've waited a day just to simmer down. The 'reserves' did a grand job but it was a total waste of time considering the penalties that followed. DA says he won't criticise people who have stood up and put themselves forward to take a penalty but did they practise beforehand? If they did, did they try the same style of penalty as they carried out in the match. Do the club issue any 'do's' & 'don'ts' on how to take penalties? In future they need to use last night's penalties in all training videos on how not to take them.
Let's remember, a penalty is an unchallenged, free shot from 12 yards against a goalkeeper. Much is said about it being a 'lottery'. However, this should only be true for the goalkeeper, who has much less chance than the taker.
Watch penalties and you will see shorter run ups end up as misses to a greater extent than longer ones. You need balance and rhythm by the time you impact the ball. You cannot establish either with just two or three steps.
Also, if you plant your standing foot next to the ball when spotting it, it is essential you pace out your run up. All three who missed did the first part but then did not approach the ball with any regular steps so that first step was pointless.
Finally, a knockout, penalty shoot out should NEVER be the time to try to be clever and try tricks. Just, take enough of a run up to establish momentum and balance and then hit it hard. Clearly that message clearly isn't being given.
Makes you wonder what else isn't being said.