Stay focused on the ball at all times
Don’t fall in the trap of just looking at the ball when it’s in the 18-yard box. Keep yourself focused on the ball at all times, even if it’s far away from you. Many goalies have realized to their horror the consequences of not paying attention to the ball when it’s far way.
Be ready to leave the 18-yard box
The primary mission of the goalkeeper is to save the shots from reaching the goal. However, at some point in the game, you will need to leave the 18-yard box. Don’t do this too often or the opponent can easily score while you are away. Be prepared to leave the goal and run in order to save the ball. Don’t hold back at this time, instead run with confidence and determination.
Jump to reach the crosses
Before you jump in the air to save the ball, be sure that you can actually reach the ball. When you should and shouldn’t jump for crosses is very difficult to determine. In fact, this is something that you will actually learn on the field as you gain more experience. If you lose the ball in the air, then the opposing team has an advantage over you.
Learn from your mistakes
Making mistakes is a part of the game. Unless you make mistakes, you won’t go very far. Have confidence in yourself and then you can take out the opposition. You will concede goals. At these times, analyze what went wrong and then try not to repeat the mistake again.
Surprise your opponents
Don’t make the first move, let your opponent do it first. This way you will be able to take them by surprise. As a soccer goalie, you should be able to judge the body language of the players. This is very important when the offensive players are taking a shot. You must be able to judge when, how and where the strikers are planning to shoot.
Standing close to the goal line is necessary
It’s important that you stand close to the goal line (about one yard). Standing too far away from the goal line can give immense opportunities to the opposing team. You don’t want to be caught with your guard down.
Don’t be afraid of getting hurt
Goalkeepers can’t be afraid of getting hurt. You will need to use you whole body to stop your opponents from scoring. In a tight situation, you must do everything you can in order to save the goal. Injuries happen in spite of all the training and the gear that the goalkeepers wear, but that’s part of the game.