Match Hazards: Sun

Coaches and players will encounter "match hazards" or conditions that can impact the quality of play. It is good to have a plan prepared before match time to deal with these. We will look at some of these hazards, possible coaching instructions and team management or tactical solutions that could enhance results.  We will address common match hazards and progress to others of the course of the series. 

Bad Sun Angle.

With early morning or evening matches the sun can present an extreme problem at one end of the field.

Decide which end of the field will be impacted.
Decide if the impact will be worse during the first half or the second half of the match.
Take into consideration weather conditions - are clouds on the horizon and will they arrive by the second half?
You should also consider the competitive balance between your team and the opponent.

In general I will take the end of the field that provides my team with an advantage in the first half. This is especially true if a rising sun, a setting sun or clouds on the horizon might diminish the hazard by the time the second half arrives. If in doubt, ask your Goalkeeper which half (s)he prefers to take first.

Of course, it might be the opponents win the coin flip and have the choice of which half they wish to take first.  If this is the case tactical adjustments might be necessary.  Employing a high line of confrontation in an attempt to play most of the half on the opponents end might be a consideration.  Deciding to "force' the ball to a certain side of the field as a means to reduce shots originating directly from the angle of the sun might be considered.  Having the GKer wear sun glare strips or a baseball hat ( with the permission of the referee ) is an option to consider.