Hat-trick
A hat-trick is when a player scores three goals in a single match. The player who scores the hat-trick usually asks the referee if they can keep the ball as a memento. What does it mean? One goal more than a brace (two goals), a hat-trick is a notable individual...
Hatful
A hatful means a large number of something and in football is often used to describe a large number of goals scored by one team or player. What does it mean? Building on the idea of a hat trick (three goals), 'a hatful' describes an even bigger tally and is...
Held to a draw
To be held to a draw means a team was unexpectedly prevented from winning by a weaker or less-favoured opponent. What does it mean? 'Holding' a team to a draw suggests one side was expected to win but was stopped from doing so - often seen as a strong, brave...
Hold out
To hold out means to successfully defend a lead (or a point) under sustained pressure; resisting the opposition's attacks to secure the win. What does it mean? This phrase suggests a strong defensive performance that wasn't easy and the team had to withstand a lot of pressure, but ultimately they...
Host
The country that holds the tournament is known as the host - to host a tournament. It also sometimes describes the home team (the hosts). What does it mean? Host has a few different meanings in football. It refers to the team or the country that is organising or holding...