Instep Shot

Steps:

The instep shot is used to score with power and accuracy. From inside or outside the box, instep shots to the corners of the goal are difficult for goalkeepers to react to and save.

1. Positioning: Start your run to the ball at an angle slightly inside the target line.
2. Approach: Your approach to the ball can be from any distance and at any speed.
3. Alignment: Your body and plant foot should be pointed in the direction that you want to shoot. Place your plant foot even with the ball at a distance of 6-8 inches and keep your plant leg bent. Lock your ankle in a down position with your kicking leg bent over the ball. Use your arms for balance and lean over. Keep your eyes focused on the ball.
4. Contact: Hit the ball with the center your instep directly in the middle of the ball. For higher shots, aim just below the middle of the ball.
5. After Contact: Swing your kicking leg straight through the ball towards your target while keeping your toe pointed down. Try to land on your kicking foot.
6. Tips: To create more power you don't need to swing harder. Power comes from the speed of execution. It should be one fluid motion with no pauses in the back spin. For greater accuracy make sure your knee and body are over the ball at impact and your ankle is rigid. This should help you lean over the ball and follow through towards the target. Remember to keep your eyes on the ball throughout the motion.