In hockey, what is the penalty awarded for a foul inside the shooting circle called?
VerifiedAnswer: Penalty Corner
Explanation:
In field hockey, when a defending player commits a foul inside their own shooting circle (also known as the striking circle), the opposing team is awarded a penalty corner. This is one of the most significant penalties in hockey and provides the attacking team with an excellent scoring opportunity.
The shooting circle is a semicircular area with a radius of 16 yards (14.63 meters) that extends from each goal line. Any intentional foul committed by the defending team within this critical area results in a penalty corner. Common fouls that lead to this penalty include stick obstruction, kicking the ball, playing the ball with hands, or any dangerous play that prevents the attacking team from a fair chance at goal.
During a penalty corner, the attacking team gets to restart play from the goal line, either 10 yards on the left or right side of the goal post. One attacking player stands on the goal line and pushes or hits the ball to their teammates positioned outside the shooting circle. Meanwhile, the defending team can only have five players (including the goalkeeper) positioned behind the goal line until the ball is played.
This penalty is particularly valuable because it gives the attacking team a structured opportunity to score from close range. Many goals in professional hockey matches come from penalty corners, making them crucial moments in any game. The attacking team often practices specific set plays and formations to maximize their chances of converting these penalty corners into goals.
