Why do goalkeepers fall to the ground? Many have asked on Google as the trend which once angered Liverpool fans continues to be seen in football.
You may have asked yourself why the likes of Jordan Pickford and Alisson Becker drop to the floor after saving a shot or catching a cross, as the pair were seen doing at Anfield last season.
So, why do goalkeepers fall to the ground? Let’s take a look…
Why goalkeepers fall to the ground
Well, there is one standout reason as to why goalkeepers often fall to the ground after gathering the ball.
Primarily, it is done by the goalkeeper on the winning side to shave some seconds off the clock.
Goalkeepers are only allowed six seconds to hold onto the ball, although that timer begins once they are in an upright position with only their hands on the ball.
By falling to the ground, the ball will also be touching the pitch as well as their gloves, which means the six seconds cannot begin.
It was seen at Anfield last season as Liverpool recorded a 2-0 win over Everton, where Pickford continued to waste time at 0-0 by laying down with the ball, much to the annoyance of the home fans, who audibly made their frustrations known.
Hilariously, Alisson Becker mocked the England international after Liverpool took the lead by replicating his actions, which was greeted by huge cheers around Anfield.
Kyle Walker was also seen dropping to the ground while learning on the job back in November 2019 after Ederson received a red card against Atalanta, which saw the right-back surprisingly step in between the sticks.
Oblivious to the ins and outs of being a goalkeeper, the England international was seen being told to hit the deck while standing upright with the ball, as Manchester City attempted to run down the clock.
That is also the reason why we rarely see goalkeepers on the losing side laying down with the ball.
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