The high ball is one of the trickiest aspects of goalkeeping. Whether it’s a cross, corner, free kick, or shot, attacking players are aware that forcing the goalkeeper into a “high ball decision” adds pressure. The key question: should you stick, catch, punch, or deflect?
Each of these options plays a vital role in your decision-making process. Below, I’ll break down when to apply each choice and how to best deal with high balls.
Understanding Your Options
Every high ball decision ultimately boils down to what gives you the best chance to reduce risk and protect your goal. The right choice depends on the situation, but there is no universal “correct” answer. Let’s look at the four main types of decisions:
- Stick
- Catch
- Punch
- Deflect (Parry)
Each of these options offers different levels of control and risk. Let’s discuss when to apply each choice.
1. Stick
Sometimes, the safest choice is to stay in position and communicate with your defenders. As the ball enters your area, shouting instructions like “away” can be just as effective as taking physical action.
A common mistake at all levels of football is rushing off the line to chase a high ball that’s out of reach, which can leave the goal exposed to the opposition.
Keep in mind that if the ball is played outside the six-yard box, attackers typically find it difficult to score directly. This makes staying on your line less risky. So unless you’re absolutely certain you can reach the ball, staying in position is often the safer option.
Before making a move, always assess the situation: Is going for the ball reducing or increasing the risk of conceding a goal?
Watch this example from Petr Čech to understand how staying on the line can be a smart decision:
2. Catch
Catching a high ball is the most definitive way to deal with a cross or corner, removing all danger. But it’s not always feasible due to obstacles such as opponents’ physicality, or rough weather conditions.
When facing a crowd, catching becomes even trickier. It’s crucial to time your jump correctly and aim for the ball at the right height to ensure you can grip it securely. Keep in mind that the weather, especially wind and wet conditions, can greatly affect how the ball behaves.
To catch a high ball with success, aim to meet it:
- In front of you, so you have a clear view of it.
- Above opposing players’ heads.
- At a height where your gloves can securely grip the ball.
Lastly, if you decide to catch a high ball, make sure you secure it fully. A spilled catch can lead to an immediate opportunity for the opposition.
To learn more about timing and technique for catching crosses and corners, check out my guide: Catching Crosses and Corners.
3. Punch
Punching the ball often carries a negative connotation, but in certain situations, it’s the most effective option. You should punch when there is clear danger, and catching it isn’t an option due to pressure or difficulty reaching the ball.
Punching is the best choice when you’re:
- Stretched or unable to reach the ball cleanly through a crowd of players.
- Under heavy pressure and catching it might lead to a dangerous spill.
The Stigma on Punching
During my playing days, I felt pressure to catch rather than punch, as catching was often seen as a more refined skill. But looking back, I wish I had been more willing to punch in situations where it would have reduced risk and improved outcomes.
In amateur football, factors like poor pitch conditions and fouls often make it harder to catch a high ball. Don’t try to do the impossible; if it’s safer to punch, commit to it, and do it with confidence.
4. Deflect (Parry)
Parrying a high ball is a useful option when catching is too risky. It’s often employed to redirect the ball safely out of play, such as tipping it behind for a corner.
You should deflect/parry if:
- Catching is too dangerous due to speed or awkward movement of the ball.
- You’re under pressure and need to clear the ball quickly.
- The ball is dropping near the goal line, like from a dipping cross or corner.
- The ball is within your six-yard box and requires a controlled deflection out of play.
Parrying is preferable to punching when you need to maintain control and avoid creating additional danger.
Key Factors in High Ball Decision-Making
When dealing with high balls, decision-making is not just about the physical actions you take, but also about anticipating the situation as a whole. Several key factors will affect your response.
Here’s a breakdown of how each element influences your choice of action:
Anticipating the Opponent’s Intentions
Understanding the attacking player’s movements gives you a significant advantage when deciding how to deal with a high ball. Is the striker attempting to head the ball directly on goal, or are they simply trying to disrupt your positioning and create chaos in the box?
By reading the body language of the attacker before the ball is delivered, you can better anticipate where it will land and make your move accordingly.
Footwork and Positioning
Your footwork and positioning are vital to getting into the right place to make a successful decision.
The key is to remain light on your toes and adjust your position quickly to meet the ball while also keeping an eye on any potential runners. The ability to cover both the ball and attackers efficiently increases your chances of making a solid decision.
Tip: Position yourself at an angle that allows you to cover both the ball and any opposing players, ensuring you can react quickly.
Dealing with Weather and Environmental Conditions
Environmental factors like wind, rain, or a slippery pitch can dramatically alter the ball’s flight path. In such conditions, it’s important to adjust your decision-making approach.
For example, windy weather can make the ball unpredictable, so punching or deflecting may be the safer choice rather than attempting to catch it.
The Mental Approach: Staying Calm Under Pressure
High ball situations, especially in crowded penalty areas, can be mentally overwhelming. It’s crucial to maintain a calm, focused mindset and avoid panicking.
Developing a mental routine or mantra for these moments can help you stay composed and make more measured decisions, rather than rushing your actions.
Training Drills to Improve High Ball Decision-Making
Practice makes perfect. The more you train, the better your decision-making will become when it comes to high balls.
Specific drills targeting timing, positioning, and reaction times are essential to improving your ability to respond quickly and accurately. Small-sided games and reaction drills are great ways to simulate high ball scenarios and refine your decision-making process.
The Role of the Defence in High Ball Situations
Goalkeepers don’t operate in isolation. Communication with your defenders is key in managing high balls. When defenders are well-organised and responsive, it reduces the overall pressure on the goalkeeper.
By clearly shouting instructions to clear the ball or organising the defensive line, you ensure a coordinated approach that makes the entire high ball situation easier to manage.
Conclusion
Dealing with high balls is a skill, and no single approach works for every situation. The key is understanding the available options—stick, catch, punch, or deflect—and selecting the one that best suits the moment.
Training, mental discipline, and effective communication with your defence can significantly improve your high ball management. Always be confident, stay calm, and read the game to make the best decision possible.