A skillful first touch gives a player time and space in which to move with and/or play the ball to a teammate or shoot. A good first touch as a tactical team concept speeds the pace of the game, cuts down on turn overs and is essential to controlling the ball as well as dictate the pace and play of the game. Receiving the ball requires a soft touch allowing the ball to settle in the players space or sweet spot and away from pressure. The mechanics of a skillfull first touch is artfull and requires great footwork, balance, body control and the ability to focus on the ball while under pressure and/or while being pushed or bumped. Not only must players settle the ball in a tight space, they must do so while moving to the ball and getting in position to recieve the ball in a way which creates the best advantage or simply allows the player to move away from pressuree keeping the ball at feet in order to play the ball quickly.
Developing a first touch takes time and consistency. Players can work on recieving a ball while juggling individually, in pairs or as a group. Using a smaller ball such as the Brasilian futebol can increase performance. Ultimately practices should focus on the first touch in every drill and game replication untill a thoughtful and skillful first touch becomes second nature. Confidence on the ball is essential to game play.

This entry was posted by BrasilianFutebol, on Monday, June 18, 2007. You can leave your response.