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that the first wooden crossbars did not appear until 1875? Prior to that, tape was used between the tops of goalposts.

What is a “sweeper”?

“Sweeper” is the name for a versatile fullback player who “sweeps up” the ball if the opponent manages to breach the defensive line. Unlike other defenders, the sweeper does not mark, or cover, one particular opponent, but covers the centre of defence. The verrou system in Switzerland and the catenaccio system in Italy were both notable for employing sweepers.

What does verrou mean?

The verrou, or “chain,” is a system of play invented by Karl Rappan while coach of Switzerland in the 1930s and 1940s. It was the first system to use four players on defence, employing a sweeper called the verrouilleur — a highly defensive fullback who patrolled the centre of defence ahead of the goalkeeper. The verrou system also required players to switch positions and duties depending on the game’s pattern. It was used by the Swiss national team in the 1938 World Cup to knock out Nazi Germany in the first round. The catenaccio system of Italy evolved out of the verrou system.