From there, it’s up to your creativity. The quicker and more natural your first touch becomes, the more time it will give you to plan your next move. The best players always seem to have a time and space on the ball because of the quality of their first touch.
Step By Step: The First Touch
by Joshua Robinson
for About.comGet the Ball Out of Your Feet
France legend Zinedine Zidane always had time on the ball because his first touch took it away from defenders and gave him room to operate.
BBC Sport
Once you have the ball in your possession, you need to be looking around to either run with it, pass, or shoot, so keep your head up. Then, with a tap from the outside of your foot or your instep, push it a couple of feet in front of you to give your kick some room or starting your dribbling.
Prev
- Be Aware of Your Teammates
- Get the Ball Under Control
- Cushion the Ball
- Bring the Ball Down
- The Chest Trap
- Get the Ball Out of Your Feet
- Practice Makes Perfect
Explore World Soccer
Must Reads
About.com Special Features
Strike out the competition with these step-by-step pictorials. More >
Learning Pilates fundamentals can help you get the most out of your exercise regime. More >
©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.
All rights reserved.