it's all about hitting a ball like you're playing table tennis

"In terms of set piece specialist I am looking for something very particular (and would encourage my scouts to do the same in the recruiting process) which is a certain shape and pace to the strike and a player that - naturally or coached or practised individually - is able to hit what I call the 'table tennis' strike.

This is a strike up, over and somewhat across the ball, typically from a more sideways-on position that produces a top-spinning, fast delivery with a rising-then-dipping trajectory.

It is achieved by striking from under the mid-point of the circumference of the ball and a rolling action of the foot, connecting above the instep, though typically appearing to be struck with it.

It can be seen on the field of play when players take free kicks from - say - 35 yards out on the left in line with the right side of the penalty box. The ball is then struck as described and on a pathway that may dip inside the far post and will bounce around the 6 yard box line.

Pritchard shows the most promise and has been practising the skill for years (important), the Murphy's also practise it and Brady can on occasion do it also.

The key factor with this invaluable, priceless skill is that it requires confidence. Fans should understand that using this technique is far higher risk than a similar-looking strike that has a bit less pace, spin and a slightly higher trajectory.

As a coach the benefits far outweighs the risks, getting right often leads to a direct or indirect goal or high quality, dangerous corner. It can however make a player look silly, skewing or shanking off the foot, or - often - dipping lower on a flatter trajectory and hitting the first defender.

A good coach will see the difference between process and result. A good process does not always lead to a good result and conversely a passive technique - let's say in this case a floated non-spinning ball to the penalty spot that a centre back powers into the net from nowhere - looks good, it is in reality is a passive set piece technique that my mother could hit and has been made to look good when it was a very safe' nothing set piece and not a 'brave' attempt at an assist.

Parma"

Posted By: Ralf Scrampton, Nov 1, 13:01:32