How Do You Take a Soccer Throw-In?

A throw-in might look simple from the stands, yet it is one of the most frequently misplayed restarts at every level of soccer. One technical error and possession flips to the other team without protest.

By understanding the exact rules, body mechanics, and subtle tactics behind a legal throw-in, you can turn this routine restart into a reliable way to retain the ball or even launch an attack. Here is the complete breakdown.

What Counts as a Throw-In?

A throw-in is the method of restarting play when the whole ball crosses the touchline on the ground or in the air. The restart is taken by a player from the team that did not touch the ball last.

Unlike corner kicks or goal kicks, opponents must stand at least two meters from the thrower until the ball re-enters the field. Once released, the ball is in play when it clearly enters the pitch.

Setting Up for a Legal Throw

Position both feet on or behind the touchline. They can be flat on the ground or you may drag the toes slightly as long as no part of either foot leaves contact with the surface before release.

Grip the ball with both hands, thumbs behind the ball and fingers spread for control. Face the field directly and keep your eyes on potential targets instead of the sideline referee.

Executing the Correct Motion

Bring the ball behind your head in one smooth movement, dipping the elbows outward rather than bending at the wrists. This back to front arc is mandatory, a side or underhand release is illegal.

As your arms swing forward, transfer weight from the back foot to the front. Release the ball once it passes above the crown of the head. Both hands must let go simultaneously to avoid a foul throw.

Common Errors and How to Avoid Them

Many fouls occur because a player instinctively lifts a heel at the last second or fails to bring the ball completely behind the head. Another frequent fault is spinning the ball with one hand to gain extra distance.

A referee will also penalize throws taken several yards ahead of the correct spot. To keep things clean, mark the ground with your lead foot before picking up the ball and focus on a deliberate, two handed release.

• Raising a foot off the ground
• Ball released from the side or below the head
• One handed spin on release
• Moving down the line to steal yards

Turning a Throw-In Into an Advantage

Short, quick throws maintain rhythm and limit the defense’s time to reset. Look for midfielders who check toward you, return the ball, and open angles for a switch of play.

In the attacking third, a long throw can mimic a corner kick. Assign teammates to block defenders, leaving space for a target runner. Practiced correctly, a well placed throw-in often creates the first touch that leads to a shot.

Drills to Improve Distance and Accuracy

Work on power by performing standing throws against a wall, marking where the ball lands, and trying to beat that mark each set.

To sharpen accuracy, place cones at varying distances inside the field and aim to land throws within one yard of each target. Add passive defenders once you can consistently hit the cones.

Conclusion

The fundamentals of a legal soccer throw-in are straightforward, both feet down, the ball behind the head, and a clean two handed release. Master those basics and fouls disappear.

From there, use quick reads and purposeful placement to keep possession or spark an attack. Treat every throw-in as an opportunity rather than a formality and you will add a valuable tool to your skill set.