The Second Ball Comments

In soccer, at the taking of a 'goal kick' - whereby the ball is put back into play, by the attacking team from its own defensive end - there are two major mantras which are bandied about the field of play. The old school version is all about 'first to', or being the first player to contest the ball in the air; all about going out and winning the first battle, and not allowing your opponent an easy 'touch' on the ball.

The contemporary, and more enlightened refrain is all about 'winning the second ball' in recognition of the reality that the ball normally ricochets randomly from one of the two opponents trying to be 'first to' gain the header, and that the player in the best position for the rebound will most likely control the ball.
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