Because just clearing your lines means that you end up giving possession back to the opposition and then being under attack again.
not if the choice is a **** header to give them a direct chance.
Put it in the stand and reset your lines is the basic tenant of solid defending.
Pass it fast and accurate when its there.
look back in time guys... look at the shocking goals we've conceded off set piece where we do very poorly off the second ball or see guys enter the box from covering spots not trusting the defenders in there and leaving guys open to have free shots...
same for coutinho there is a goal in my memory where he tried to chip it over a guy when it came to him at the far post and he lost it and they scored.
when your team mates are assuming you'll clear it and are getting out to play guys offside and you cough it up you virtually give a goal away.
...........
in case anyone's missed this Stones at everton has been doing this ridiculous stuff lately and everton have been hurt as a result. He can play out but playing out in bad areas coughs up goals but RARELY results in anything more than basic possession.
If you can explain how playing the ball in your six yard box when you are stones can make a goal scoring chance great BTW.... really simple.
same as goals from breaking out from corners. Its VERY rare to actually score off one. Its better to have 11 back with your fast technical players on the edge of box to break from there than a forward standing in centre circle.
Most of the time sides focus on clearing it and teams then rather than lump it forward and get caught offside pass it back or square while team shape is regained.
IF LFC focused on merely the basics... , hold a good line, block crosses, make positive strong clearances, high and wide on headers, wide on kicking ball away... put ball out for a throw if you have anyone closing in... never let it bounce.. never turn your back on play etc etc... well we'd concede far less.
Its actual rare we see a total free header goal off a set piece really. there are exceptions like west brom or fa cup game but we see a huge amount off really sloppy clearances or players doing crazy stuff.
Look at goals we've let in lately, sahko running up pitch chasing, lovern letting it bounce v leicester...... theres an awful lot to be said for getting the basics right first.