Shooting
Shots on Target
Shots on Target measures how many of a player's or team's shots are on course to enter the goal, requiring a save from the goalkeeper or resulting in a goal. A shot counts as "on target" when it's heading into the goal, and only a save, a block on the line, or the woodwork stops it. A striker who fires 10 shots in a match, with 4 forcing a save and 6 flying wide or over, recorded 4 shots on target. While the definition is straightforward, a few scenarios are worth understanding. A shot that hits the post or crossbar and stays out is not counted as a shot on target because it wasn't stopped by the goalkeeper. On the other hand, a deflected shot that still requires a save, or ends up in the net, is counted. For teams, Shots on Target is simply the total number of on-target efforts recorded over a match or season. It provides a clear indication of how often a team is forcing the opposition goalkeeper into action.