Knowing how to slide tackle is important because no matter how fast you are there will be times you need to use it. It’s funny because as I started writing this article I told my youngest daughter and the first thing she said is “O can I read it”… She was practicing in the yard the other day, but doing it completely wrong. It was hard to explain to her verbally the correct way, so I got down on the ground to show the proper form – which is key to know. Below you’ll learn this plus more.
The correct and incorrect ways to slide tackle
How to slide tackle the right way – picture above
How Not to slide tackle – Both pictures below
If you see the pic above you notice that the players on their side, bottom leg bent, top leg and foot is low to connect with the ball, and their toes are pointed down so that the cleats don’t hurt the opponent. See that the laces are facing the ball.
The timing and when to slide
- You want to start your slide from 2-3 yards from the player, not right next to them.
- Don’t slide from behind because it’s illegal and can cause injury.
- Slide when the opponent is to the side of you.
- Right after the opposing player takes a touch go for the slide. If not they’ll have time to take a touch past you.
Oftentimes as you slide the opponent will jump over you so they don’t get taken down.
Other times the opponent will fall down because both of you will connect with the ball at the same time, but since you’re low they will go down.
Dangerous play
It’s important to be aggressive in soccer, but we want to play clean.
How not to slide tackle:
- A slide tackle from behind is usually a straight red because it’s dangerous. Even if you get the ball first you’ll still get a red because most likely you will also get the player and by rules you shouldn’t tackle from behind.
- Cleats up is a yellow or oftentimes red card. This means you slide feet first at the player with your cleats exposed to them.
- Slide tackling with your feet higher than the ball.
Technically you want to tackle with your bottom foot and laces facing the ball, but there are times when you can legally use the bottom foot and even the heal to wrap around the ball. The key is you have to get all ball and not slide from behind.
This video shows pros making great tackles and how there are times that you can use the top foot to win the ball.
How to practice slide tackling
Use long pants and maybe try on a rainy day because it’s easier to slide. You can also pour water on a tarp to make slick or use cardboard.
Again, wear long pants. Once you know how, it won’t matter the conditions.
How to practice by yourself…
- Start off on the ground with proper form [on your side, bottom leg bent, top leg wins the ball with your toes down, laces and shins facing the player]. By doing this your brain and muscle memory will know the correct way.
- With a still or moving ball run a few steps, get low by bending your knees right before you slide. Make sure as you get into position you come to the side of the ball a few yards away. As you connect with the ball you can either kick the ball away [with laces] or barely touch it to allow you to quickly get up with the ball at your feet. Get low as you leave your feet – don’t jump high or it will hurt as you land.
I really like this method using the cardboard – tutorial from Shannon Boxx…
With a partner…
- Practice 1v1’s with a partner… Make a 10×20 yard grid. The dribbling player takes touches forwards towards the right of the grid, cuts in to go left. As the defender is jocking and turns to run, just the attacker gets to the side of you start your slide from 2-3 yards away. Then practice going the opposite way, so you’re good at sliding on both sides.
Technique, timing and mindset
Sliding requires 3 main things:
- Technique – get low before sliding, bottom leg will be bent, as the top leg is the one that will steal the ball. Keep your toes down so you protect you and the opponent. Make sure your laces face the ball. Your lower arm when sliding will help with balance.
- Timing and space – You don’t want to be too close or far away [2-3 yards is good]. Right as you see the opponent takes their touch slide because it keeps them from getting another touch to push the ball past you.
- Willingness – Be strong and courageous. Let this be a skill that makes players scared to go against you.
Clothing to protect from strawberry burn
I have a friend (Jason) who lives in Pittsburgh and is a director of the Riverhounds youth club, which is one of the best clubs in Pennsylvania. Anyway a few years ago I saw a post he made on Twitter where he taught on slide tackling.
One thing they did that is smart was wear long pants during these practice sessions… They also practiced on a night it just rained, so the turf was wet – making it easier to slide.
2 reasons wearing long pants instead of shorts is smart when practicing how to slide.
- Helps prevent strawberries [grass or turf burn] on your hips.
- More reps because it won’t hurt
Slider shorts are also good… Tight shorts under your soccer shorts to help prevent a strawberry burn.
Make sure they’re not longer than your uniform shorts… If they are you can try pulling them up the legs.
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