The purpose of this study was to devise a suitable notational analysis system (video analysis combined with hand notation) to help coaches and players improve their performance during penalty corners in field hockey. The design of the system sought to highlight successful tactics, while eliminating the unsuccessful ones. Two hundred and fifty penalty corners from the 1998 field hockey World Cup in Holland were analysed using video analysis and a hand notation system. Results showed that most successful goals were scored from straight shots that were either flicked or undercut. The average number of touches which resulted in a straight shot/outright goal was found to be three. Unsuccessful goals occurred most often when the ball was saved by either the goalie or a defender or when the attacker lost possession. Most shots that were on target, resulted in a save. These shots were usually hit without the ball leaving the ground. This information could be used by coaches and players to concentrate a portion of training time to perfecting these successful tactics and discouraging the unsuccessful ones. The ability to score from penalty corners can be the determining factor in winning a match.
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