In a game predicated more or less on constant movement on the pitch, there are only a few moments in soccer when play stops and the action turns into something like a predetermined play. On corner kicks and free kicks, the game temporarily turns into something very different. Although not as inherently fraught with tension and resolution as a penalty kick, set pieces give us as viewers a moment to take stock of the situation and let the anticipation build in stillness instead motion for a few moments. On free kicks, they also give us a chance to wonder exactly what it is Bobby Shuttleworth is doing with his hands on the near post.
Bob the Builder
