In hockey, what is a penalty corner?
VerifiedAnswer: A penalty corner is a set play awarded in field hockey, not ice hockey, after certain fouls, allowing an attacking team to attempt a shot on goal from a specific restart position.
Explanation:
A penalty corner is one of the most exciting moments in field hockey, often leading to spectacular goals and dramatic saves. When awarded, it gives the attacking team a significant scoring opportunity from close range to the goal. This set piece occurs when the defending team commits specific fouls within their defensive circle or goal area.
The penalty corner begins with a very specific setup. One attacking player stands on the goal line, typically near the corner of the field, and hits or pushes the ball back to teammates positioned outside the striking circle. Meanwhile, defending players must position themselves behind their own goal line until the ball is played, with only five defenders (including the goalkeeper) allowed to participate in defending the corner.
Common situations that lead to penalty corners include intentional fouls by defenders inside the circle, dangerous play that prevents a scoring opportunity, or when the ball accidentally touches a defender's foot inside the circle. The referee awards this restart to maintain fairness and ensure that defensive teams cannot simply commit fouls to prevent goals.
Teams often practice elaborate penalty corner routines, involving quick passes, dummy runs, and powerful shots. Some players specialize in taking penalty corners, developing techniques for drag flicks, direct shots, or creative passing combinations that can catch defenders off guard.
It's important to note that this rule applies specifically to field hockey, not ice hockey, where different penalty systems exist. In field hockey, penalty corners are crucial tactical elements that can determine the outcome of close matches, making them essential for both players and fans to understand.
