99% Invisible Unsure Footing
Oct 15, 2019
Adam Hurry, a soccer writer, dives into the surprising impact of the backpass rule introduced in 1992. He explores how this seemingly minor change transformed goalkeeping strategies and the overall dynamics of soccer. With a mix of personal anecdotes and historical insights, he discusses the chaotic adjustments goalkeepers faced and highlights their evolving roles as both defenders and playmakers. Hurry also unveils the controversial origins of the rule, bringing light to the unsung contributions of those who shaped the game.
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1990 World Cup Time-Wasting
- The 1990 World Cup was considered a turning point due to excessive time-wasting.
- One game saw Irish goalkeeper Pat Bonner hold the ball for six minutes.
Simon Tracy's Calamity
- Sheffield United's goalkeeper, Simon Tracy, showcased the rule's initial chaos.
- He dribbled the ball out of bounds, wrestled with a ball boy, and got a red card.
Impact of the Back-Pass Law
- The back-pass law eliminated time-wasting and fostered a more dynamic playing style.
- It forced defenders to improve footwork and goalkeepers to become more involved in gameplay.
