The main role of a forward is to score goals, which is why these players frequently get the most attention (and are known for setting records or making achievements like hat tricks). You'll first spot them kicking off at the beginning of the game (and again after halftime) and it's almost always forwards who take penalty kicks. At the start of the game, forwards are positioned at the midfield line and once the game begins, they move toward the opponent's goal. You won't typically see a forward any closer to their team's goalpost than the midfield line — their presence would interfere with defenders' ability to do their jobs, and forwards always need to be prepared for the moment the ball comes back their way so they can seize the opportunity to score.
