A ball rolling directly at the goalkeeper is received using the standing scoop save technique. From the ready position the keeper shuffles sideways to a position between the ball and the goal. As the ball arrives he or she bends forward at the waist with legs straight and feet positioned a few inches apart. Arms are extended down with palms facing forward and slightly cupped. Forearms are parallel with one another, and fingertips should nearly touch the ground. The keeper allows the ball to roll up onto the wrists and forearms (scoop technique), and then returns to an upright position with the ball clutched securely between forearms and chest. The goalkeeper should not attempt to receive a rolling ball by catching it directly in the palms of the hands. On occasion you may observe a goalkeeper drop to one knee when receiving a ball rolling directly at him or her. Although the kneeling technique is a possible option when the ball is rolling slowly, most coaches recommend the standing save for two reasons: 1) by dropping to one knee the keeper limits her or her ability to readjust position if the ball takes a bad bounce, and 2) the keeper can distribute the ball more quickly from a standing position.
