FOOTBALL

Football is played between two teams opposing each other. Each team consists of eleven players. In the old method one goalie, two full-backs, three half backs and five forwards made the line-up. The centre-half had the pivotal role. This system is now treated to be obsolete. The duration of the game in the international contests is a period of 90 minutes divided into two halves of 45 minutes each. Between each halves, there is a break for not more than 15 minutes. One referee assisted by two linesmen conducts the game.

The game in the past was played robustly, and mostly with the application of physical strength. But, now the pattern has changed for the better. A good schemer in the forward line is, indeed, a veritable artist. Successful defenders play the game with perfect anticipation, neat tackling, superb head-work and sudden burst of overlapping. A competitive game in progress is, surely, a fascinating treat to watch.Playing football sport is a good physical exercise. It also provides various other benefits to the kids, children and youths including other age group people. It is generally played in the schools and colleges for the health benefits of the students. It helps in improving the student�s skill, concentration level and memory power. This is a game which makes a person physically, mentally and socially healthy and well being. It is a great source of entertainment which refreshes mind and body. It helps a person to tackle all the common problems of daily life. Football is a most popular game all over the world. It is an inexpensive game, played in almost all the countries with much interest. Players, who practice it regularly, get benefited in many ways. It provides lots of benefits to the physical and mental health.Football is played at a professional level all over the world, and millions of people regularly go to football stadium to follow their favorite team, whilst millions more avidly watch the game on television. A very large number of people also play football at an amateur level. In many parts of the world football evokes great passions and plays an important role in the life of individual fans, local communities, and even nations; it is therefore often claimed to be the most popular sport in the world.

CRISTIANO RONALDO
FOOTBALL IN KERALA