Poikkipallo

Poikkipallo is a Finnish term that translates to "cross-ball" or "cross-shot" in English. It is primarily used in the context of team sports, particularly ice hockey and floorball, to describe a specific type of pass or shot. The poikkipallo involves passing or shooting the ball or puck across the width of the playing surface, often from one side of the ice or rink to the other, or from a defensive position towards a teammate in an offensive area.

This type of pass is distinct from a simple forward pass or a shot directly towards the net. A poikkipallo requires the player to anticipate the movement of their teammates and the opposition, often involving precise accuracy and timing. It can be a strategic maneuver to break down defensive formations, create scoring opportunities by moving the puck to a more advantageous position, or to initiate a quick counter-attack.

The effectiveness of a poikkipallo depends on several factors, including the skill of the passer, the readiness of the receiver, and the positioning of opposing players. A well-executed poikkipallo can surprise the defense and lead to a goal, while a poorly executed one can result in a turnover or an intercepted pass. Players who are skilled at making and receiving poikkipallo passes are often considered valuable assets to their teams due to their ability to control the flow of the game and create offensive pressure.