SET-PIECE SECRET

THE THROW-IN MAY SEEM A MUNDANE PART OF FOOTBALL, BUT THERE IS MUCH MORE TO IT THAN MEETS THE EYE

- Mark Gleeson

Football is an ever-evolving sport, and all aspects of the game are now vital to the overall result. Shooting, passing, tackling, and even throwing.

The long throw-in has been part of attacking options, sometimes having the same effect as a set piece like a free kick or corner.

But not many clubs have had players with the ability to launch a throw-in to the penalty area, get a desired flick on, usually at the near post, and then create a scoring opportunity.

One of the best exponents was Gavin Lane in his days at Giant Blackpool and Orlando Pirates, where he was part of their African Champions Cup-winning side of 1995. A former water polo player, he had a barrel chest that gave him the force to launch the ball with extraordinary length.

In more recent times the Highlands Park and Maritzburg United defender Ryan Rae was another with a missilelike throw, using golfer's gloves to give him a decent grip on the ball.

But now the advantage to be gained from a throw is not only restricted to the long ball launched into the opponent's penalty area.

Coaches constantly seeking ways to gain an advantage are finding other innovations from throw-ins.