If we don't shoot, we can't score. There that is the bottom line. If you don't take a chance on goal, there is no chance to score a goal. Then the only possible way to score is for your opponent to score on their own net and that leaves too much to chance. And point is, they aren't likely to do that for you.
Now, why shoot? Simple to score goals, if not directly, but also from opportunities arising from a loose ball in the 6 yard box. Also, the thing is, the more shots taken, means more opportunities to score. Several studies done over the last three decades concluded that, on average, it took 9 shots to score one goal at the professional level. All things being equal, including shooting skills and techniques and goal keeping skills and techniques, then it really should be about the same ratio at the amateur levels as well.
Liverpool has, over the past several months, began a gradual increase in their shots/attempts at goal. This has in turn led to, surprise more goals. More goals has led to,......more victories.
With respect to my amateur sides I have tried to encourage shooting at the net upon every reasonable opportunity. Who am I kidding, I tell them to shoot whenever they are within a certain distance from the net (usually anywhere inside the arc/"D" of the 18 yard box. I don't want them to think, I want them to shoot.
This is not an original sentiment, Bob Paisley, another famous Liverpool manager put it best when he said:
If you’re in the penalty area and don’t know what to do with the ball, put it in the net and we’ll discuss the options later.
In normal speak, DON'T THINK, SHOOT!!!
In the game below the players stay in their own halves. The field should be short 25-30 yards, and wide 35-40 yards. The number 8's are goal poachers and the remaining players are to be encouraged to take shots from range, and quickly. If a ball goes out of bounds, the coach is to put a ball back into play quickly.
Walk On
Hal White
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InthehscJ
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