Goalkeeper (association football) Goalkeeper, often shortened to
keeper or goalie, is one of the major positions of association
football. It is the oldest, most specialised, and generally most
important position in the sport. The goalkeeper's primary role
is to prevent the opposing team from successfully moving the
ball over the defended goal-line (between the posts and under
the crossbar). This is accomplished by the goalkeeper moving
into the path of the ball and either catching it or directing
away from the vicinity of the goal line. Within the 18 yard box
goalkeepers are able to use their hands, making them (outside of
throw-ins) the only players on the field able to handle the
ball. Goalkeepers perform goal kicks, and also give commands to
their defence during corner kicks, direct and indirect free
kicks, and marking. Goalkeepers play an important role in
directing on field strategy as they have an unrestricted view of
the entire pitch giving them a unique perspective on play
development. Goalkeepers are