The Efficiency Model of Goalkeeper's Actions in Soccer.

Background: The purpose of this paper was to present cognitive models illustrating efficiency of the goalkeeper's actions in soccer based on observation of play in selected matches of the Euro 2008 finals. Materials and methods: The observation method was used in the study. The play of both goalkeepers was analysed in 7 soccer matches in a cup phase of the European Championships which took place in Portugal in 2008. The data was recorded on the authors' observation forms. Activity, effectiveness and reliability during both offensive and defensive actions were subject to this examination. Results: It was revealed that most actions of the goalkeeper are aimed at taking control of the field of play or keeping possession of the ball; creating goal scoring opportunity represents only a small percentage of offensive actions. Defensive actions are generally performed individually and the highest reliability is reported while catching the ball. Conclusions: Efficiency models of goalkeepers' actions should be used to create models of play for players representing a lower level of sports competence in order to improve the effectiveness of their game play. One should continue further study to improve a research tool so as to evaluate other, important from the point of view of the game's objectives, actions definitely dependent on team mates' behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]