In sports like football (soccer) and hockey, accurate attempts to score that require a save from the opposing goalkeeper or goaltender are considered successful attempts. For instance, a shot that hits the goalpost or crossbar does not qualify, nor does a shot that is blocked by a defender before reaching the goal. A shot that goes wide or over the net is also not counted.
This statistic provides a crucial measure of offensive effectiveness, going beyond mere shot volume to highlight the quality of chances created. By isolating attempts that directly challenge the goalkeeper, it offers a clearer picture of a team or player’s ability to generate high-probability scoring opportunities. Historically, simpler metrics like total shots were used, but the focus has shifted to this more insightful metric to provide a more nuanced understanding of attacking prowess. Tracking this statistic helps evaluate player performance, team strategies, and overall game dynamics.
