scoop turn

Play Video

description

The scoop turn is a move that not only looks impressive but is also very effective when used in the right areas and situations. It’s most effective with space behind the defender and in the opposition’s final third. The scoop turn was famously used to score a goal by Romario, in a Clasico of all matches.

This skill move is best used when side on to the defender and with the ball not rolling too fast, if at all.

Step 1

Before you receive the ball you should know where the defender is. You only need a small amount of space between yourself and the defender, so you can even use the move if the defender is tightly marking you. Try to avoid doing the move too far away from the defender.

  • Set your body so the ball is with your strong foot and your body is side on from the defender, this also helps you protect the ball and makes it look like your shaping up to pass.
  • Plant the foot you’re not using slightly angled and behind the ball. This will help when pivoting & to bring the ball to around the front of your plant foot.
  • Get your arms up for balancing, this also helps to sell the move to the defender and make it look like you’re passing.
  • The knee on your planting leg side can be flexed slightly to help with rotation.

Step 2

  • Bring your scoop turn foot to the ball and using the inside middle part of your foot, drag the ball across the front of your plant foot, along the ground towards the defender and then flick out past them.
  • Essentially you’re cradling the ball with your foot.
  • The scoop should be done in one drag.
  • If you’re dribbling & not already side on, shift your stance so you are. Notice how it looks like you’re shaping to pass.
  • You will also need to slow yourself down when dribbling before attempting the move.
  • Your upper body should be compact during the move.
  • Your hips and upper body should rotate with the scoop.
  • When you’re about to finish the drag, try to accelerate quickly to retrieve to the ball.
  • Try against a defender or some cones if you don’t have a defender with you.
  • It’s very important that you carry out the move with confidence and belief. The more times you practice, the more confidence you’ll gain.

extra

Skills should be done at speed to really throw the defender off and get past them. Remember, by doing to move quick and exiting quick, you’re giving the defender less time to react to your move. You should slow things down if it’s not quite working for you, remember repetition is key when learning something new.