1-4-2-3-1 The Role of the Goalkeeper.

As promised, I will be writing on the roles for various positions within a 1-4-2-3-1 and 1-4-1-4-1 formations.  A teaching moment to begin today's writing: the correct way to designate a formation is to begin with the number 1 as the first in the sequence.  Many, perhaps most, times we will see a formation designation that omits the goalkeeper: 4-2-3-1 for instance.  Since I will be referring to positions both by name and the number designation they have traditionally had, I will make it a point of emphasis to refer to the goalkeeper as the #1 position and the formation as either 1-4-2-3-1 or 1-4-1-4-1.

Also a word on the two designations for the formation under discussion. I view them as a single formation that takes on a couple of different looks. Since I believe a formational alignment is nothing more than a starting point this makes perfect sense. In fact, I would caution not to get overly caught  up in numerical descriptions of formations. A teams shape in the run of play is far more important and our team shape will change and shift based in large part on how the center midfielder labeled with #8 is deployed and utilized, but more on that in future writings.

The goalkeeper is these formations and the accompanying systems of play must play as a Sweeper / Keeper.  His is a blended role necessitating the ability to play both with his hands and with his feet. We will look at four man areas sweeper / keepers must be proficient in; technical, tactical, physical and psychological. Each hold equal importance in the role of the sweeper / keeper.

The GK must be technically proficient in playing the ball with both his hands and his feet. The quality of first touch with both hands and feet must be excellent. A ball not fielded cleanly serves a rebound to the opponents.  A misplayed ball with the feet can lead directly to a goal.

Once in possession of the ball the GK becomes the first attacker. He must be able to distribute the ball with both his hands and his feet.  He must be technical excellent, comfortable and confident in each type of distribution; roll, throw, push pass, laces drive, drop kick and punt.

Tactical considerations include playing without and with the ball.  I put those in that specific order because playing without the ball is preparation for playing with the ball.  Being in support of or backing up the backs is the GK's first role. He must be well positioned to field opponents through balls with his feet and hands. Quick decisive decisions making and flawless execution are predicated on being properly positioned based on reading the game accurately. He must command and dominate the penalty area and most especially the goal box. These are his domain and intruders - the ball and opponents - are not welcomed.

From a physical standpoint GK's need to possess strength, explosiveness and quickness. Soccer is a physical game and goalkeepers in particular can find themselves in physical confrontations with opponents where they are susceptible to collisions while focusing on playing the ball with their hands. Strong yet soft sure hands are a must. Explosiveness in changing directions and elevating to play high balls should be a prerequisite.  Quickness is far more important than speed. The best goalkeepers both anticipate (read the game) and possess quick reactions to unexpected clever payer by opponents and deflections.

The true strength of the goalkeeper position is found in psychology necessary to play the position. The Sweeper / Keeper must have a commanding presence exuding confidence and assurance. Courage is extremely important in his role as the last defender. The ability to organize, lead and communicate is vital.  The one trait I prize as highly as any is the ability to give steady consistent emotional performance. A Sweeper / Keeper cannot afford to get too high or too low. He must be the rock that his defense is built on.

Tomorrow we will continue exploring the spine of the formation.  The spine are those players whose starting position designated in a formation are centrally located.  The center backs, the midfielders and the striker. I intend to take these out of order from that which I have just presented them and move straight to the #6 position - the DM or HM or as I have begun referring to it, the linking midfielder.