Adapted from Football Academy
Notice that while waiting for the shot, the goalkeeper is well balanced. He is leaning slightly forwards, and his knees are bent ready to move in any direction. He gets into position before the ball arrives, so that he is directly facing the ball. In other words, his shoulders are square to the ball.
The goalkeeper takes the football into his chest or deep into the pit of his stomach, and wraps his hands and arms around the front of it. Whenever you make a save, it is important to gather the ball safely, so that you do not drop it, or have the ball knocked out of your hands. Wrapping your hands and arms around it will ensure that the ball is yours. The technique is quite simple, but it is important that you master the basics well.
It is often a temptation for a young goalkeeper to dive for everything thinking that this makes him look a better keeper. It's always better to avoid diving if you can simply move yourself behind the ball. The chances of you misjudging the ball are less if you do not dive, and there is always a chance of losing the ball as you hit the ground after a dive. Another advantage of keeping on your feet is that once you have the ball, you can throw or kick it forward immediately, and perhaps start a quick counter attack before the other team is ready.
