Let's dive into the world of positive goalkeeping, where we'll break down the game into its finer points beyond just the saves. Join us as we explore the essence of being a proactive and influential goalkeeper.

 

We often show clips from Lee's career to exemplify the style we advocate. Most goalkeepers, we're quite certain, aspire to have a greater influence on the game, even beyond those spectacular saves.

 

Taking command of crosses, confidently holding shots, defending the space behind, and using your distribution to switch from defense to attack or maintain possession upfield – these are the subtle yet critical facets of the game.

 

Lee, in his time, shouldered these responsibilities, but he wished that he had a manger that encouraged him to play more positively. Because no manager did, it piled on the pressure to play ‘his way’.

 

Part 1: Aerial Balls / Crosses

 

 

 

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cpx8m0uI3Rk/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

 

Part 2: Defending the Space

 

Now, let's talk about an aspect that often goes unnoticed amidst the excitement: defending the space. Why, you ask? Well, because most coaches, fans, and managers tend to gauge a goalkeeper's performance based on saves. If you're not making saves, they reckon it's been a "quiet game." 😅

 

But we firmly believe in chance prevention, an aspect Lee excelled at. Even though he openly admits his struggles with 1v1 situations (quite amusing, really 😂), he was a master at preventing those very chances from arising.

 

Mistakes are part of the game, no doubt, but they're far outweighed by the times you get it right. Learn from those slip-ups but don't let them deter you. Sometimes, it's the muddy pitch, the bobbly dry field, or challenging lighting that makes it tough to judge. When faced with such scenarios in the future, remember to give yourself that extra moment to assess the situation.

 

P.S. Lee only gave away one penalty in his entire career, and he’s adamant the lad dove for it! 😂

 

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp0J5gion1D/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

 

Part 3: Distribution from Hands (Throws and Side Volleys)

 

Your distribution can be your team's secret weapon. It's your ticket to starting counterattacks, creating scoring opportunities, or simply maintaining possession with precision.

 

Remember, you'll always find opportunities to distribute the ball from your hands. So, be sure to hone all types of distribution to handle any situation that comes your way.

 

Explore the various types of throws Lee used to release the ball strategically, whether for a quick release in confined spaces or to navigate close-range obstacles. And don't forget the side volleys – perfect for those longer distances and faster ball speeds.

 

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp3GtpjIpxa/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

 

Part 4: Handling

 

When we talk about "positive" goalkeeping, we're not just referring to being proactive, defending spaces, and distributing the ball to disrupt the opposition. We're also talking about making those shot-stopping actions count.

 

Confidence is key, and actively wanting to secure those shots is a must. It's about making it all look easy, even when it's far from it. Your hands are your greatest assets, after all.

 

Keep in mind, though, that even the shots that seem catchable can be quite the challenge in the heat of the game. Not every goalkeeper can hold the same ball with grace.

 

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp5tXa3IrwW/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

 

Part 5: Distribution from the Floor

 

Playing as a goalkeeper isn't just about preventing goals; it's about creating opportunities too.

 

Lee never had the privilege of playing in a team that fancied building from the back. Therefore, it was paramount for him to play those key passes and maintain possession higher up the field.

 

Play it flatter, go slightly shorter to give your teammates more control and protection. Carry the ball upfield to place it in more dangerous areas, spread the play wide, and switch it around to give your players more space.

 

Instead of merely launching the ball upfield, consider the many managers who yearn for just that. 😅

 

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp-ETbcowVg/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

 

Our aim is to use this platform to educate, encourage, and inspire goalkeepers to embrace positive goalkeeping. It's about playing with freedom and making a real impact on the game. 🙌