GK Double Leg Blocking 1

The double leg block is a save that can be used in a variety of situations. Closing down deflections is one and block a direct shot is another. This skill can be a good replacement option for the slide as it allows you to stay on your feet and therefore stay mobile. However if you get the timing wrong then you may find yourself standing and watching the ball role into the goal behind you. Again this is a skill that requires speed and power so when you decide to go you can explode out and close down the space between you and the striker as quickly as possible. The closer the gap, the more likely it is that the ball will hit you. I have always been one to jump at the last second into the save so my feet are on the ground and my legs are squeezed tightly together. More recently I have been taught a technique by Dave Staniforth where you shuffle your feet in the last few moments so as to gain some extra distance and ensure you are moving forward and propelling the rebound forward. With your upper body you want to have chest forward and hands coming forward so as to almost enclose the area around the ball. Having your head down will also help you to keep sight of the ball wherever it spills. Decision making is key to its is best that you practice the timing with a single striker before trialling it in your training. When they lift their stick you can go or if they have their head down and are coming in close then you may also get a head start to go.