A viral video of how penalties used to be taken in Major League Soccer in the 1990s has gone viral. One fan commented on a video of the process saying, “Well it’s not a penalty…it’s a shootout”
Well it’s not a penalty…it’s a shootout
— Pingu (@heypingu_) February 7, 2023
In the video, it is former Leeds United manager Jesse Marsch that is taking the penalty shootout for MLS club Chicago Fire. However, this was more of a shootout rather than the penalty kicks that take place in modern soccer.
In modern soccer, each player stepped up to take one kick from the spot. In the version popularized by the MLS, players used to start 35 yards out from the goal. Each attacker was given the freedom to decide if he wanted to take a long shot or go on to dribble toward the goal and shoot from close range. Meanwhile, the goalkeeper also had the freedom to decide if he wanted to remain on his line or drive out.
While many players were seen struggling to adapt to this unorthodox change in the game. Former Leeds manager Marsch seemed to be a natural. His starting stance was that of a sprinter ready to run. As the referee blew the whistle, he was off. He ran toward the goal, took a few touches, and chipped the keeper with immense ease.
Fans react to baffling video of soccer penalties
The soccer world had mixed reactions to this form of the penalty shootout. Many believe this is the real way a ‘shootout’ should take place. According to them, this gives more freedom to the players and is more exciting.
it’s much better imo
— 𝘈𝙟 (I miss Bruno😞) (@16AJ29) February 7, 2023
Looks better tbh
— Nick (@NlckMCFC) February 7, 2023
Tbf this requires more skill than penalties
— Strolled (@STERILISATIES) February 7, 2023
Marsch is not the Leeds manager anymore. He was sacked on February 6, 2023, after a poor run of form saw Leeds struggle in the 17th position on the Premier League table.
Marsch saw out his whole playing career in the USA. He debuted in the 1996/97 season and played for DC United. Later, he moved on to play for Chicago Fire from 1998 to 2005. He spent the last few years of his playing career in Chivas USA.
His managerial career began with an assistant role for the US national team. In 2012, he became the manager of the new MLS club Montreal Impact. He stayed there for a year and moved on to New York Red Bull in 2015. Marsch stayed with the Red Bull franchise after leaving New York in 2018. He managed Red Bull Salzburg and Red Bull Leipzig. In February 2022, he made a move to Leeds, however, he could stay there only for a year.
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