5 best half volley goals in Premier League history: Gerrard’s thunderbolt, Cisse’s rainbow at Stamford Bridge

The football world was set ablaze last Sunday at the Stadio Olimpico during a thrilling 3-3 draw between Juventus and AS Roma in matchday 27 of Serie A. The standout moment arrived shortly after the restart when Portugal international Conceicao unleashed a sensational half-volley to level the score at 1-1. 

Following a cleared cross that looped toward the edge of the area, Conceicao tracked the ball's flight with predatory focus. As the ball kissed the turf, he struck it instantly on the rise, sending a swerving rocket into the far corner. The Juventus bench erupted, and fans were left in awe of the technical precision required for such a strike. In the dressing room, Conceicao’s brothers immediately sent him videos of the goal to offer their praise. This masterpiece became an instant viral sensation, garnering millions of interactions on the official Serie A social media pages within hours as supporters debated its rank among the season's finest.

However, Conceicao’s strike has sparked a common confusion: was it a volley or a half-volley? While the ball was in the air when struck, the core distinction lies in the bounce. A full volley is struck directly out of the air before it touches the ground. 

What is the half-volley? 

Originating from the French word "volée" (flight), the full volley requires immense timing and often leaves goalkeepers helpless because the shot is so immediate. In contrast, a half-volley occurs when a player strikes the ball immediately after it hits the ground, specifically when it is just beginning its upward bounce. The crucial rule is that less than half a second must pass between the bounce and the contact. 

This technique is often more effective for attackers because the ground contact stabilizes the ball's trajectory, allowing for incredible power and accuracy. For a defender, a half-volley is a nightmare to stop because the ball gains a "skidding" momentum that is difficult to track.

At Goaloomobi, we believe that while the half-volley is technically more accessible than the full volley, executing it at the highest level requires world-class composure. This skill appears in every league globally, but the Premier League has provided the most iconic stages for these "rising" strikes. 

Some efforts have become legendary, etched into the memories of fans forever. Whether it is a long-range screamer or a swivel in the box, the best half volley goals represent the pinnacle of English football’s drama and flair.

The 5 best half volley goals in Premier League history

5. Matt Taylor vs Sunderland (2005/26) 

With the score tied at 0-0, Taylor spotted the goalkeeper off his line and struck a half-volley from over 40 yards out. The ball dipped perfectly under the bar, leaving the Fratton Park crowd in total disbelief as Portsmouth went on to win. 

4. Robbie Keane vs Arsenal (2009)

During a tense 1-1 stalemate at the Emirates, Keane latched onto a high ball that bounced once; he hammered a half-volley into the top corner, a rare highlight of his Anfield career that silenced the North London fans.

3. Didier Drogba vs Liverpool (2006)

The third spot belongs to Didier Drogba’s masterpiece against Liverpool in 2006. With his back to goal and the score at 0-0, Drogba controlled the ball on his chest, let it bounce once, and hit a swivel half-volley that flew past Pepe Reina. This goal changed the momentum entirely, leading Chelsea to a vital 1-0 victory. 

2. Steven Gerrard vs Middlesbrough (2004)

In the dying embers of the game with Liverpool trailing 1-0, Gerrard met a bouncing ball 30 yards out. His half-volley didn't just break the net; it saved a point for the Reds, cementing his legacy as a big-game player. 

1. Papiss Cisse vs Cheslea (2012)

Finally, the number one spot is reserved for Papiss Cisse’s "impossible" goal for Newcastle against Chelsea in 2012. Leading 1-0 in the final minutes, Cisse chased a bouncing ball near the touchline. He struck it with the outside of his boot on the half-bounce, creating a curve so extreme that it bypassed Petr Cech. It remains the undisputed king of the best half volley goals.

5 iconic half-volley in Premier League history: 

Papiss Cisse vs Chelsea (2012)

Steven Gerrard vs Middlesbrough (2004)

Didier Drogba vs Liverpool (2006)

Robbie Keane vs Arsenal (2009)

Matt Taylor vs Sunderland (2005)

The team at Goaloomobi.net has aimed to bring these heroic Premier League moments back to life. Whether you witnessed these live or are seeing them for the first time, each strike proves why we love the beautiful game. Which of these best half volley goals impressed you the most? 

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