General
kill the game
What does kill the game mean?
To net a decisive goal that puts the match beyond the opposition's reach.
"That third goal killed the game as a contest."
Origin
Figurative; the goal 'kills off' any comeback.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'kill the game' mean in football?
It means to score a decisive goal that puts the result beyond doubt, or to slow play down so the opposition can't fight back.
Is killing the game the same as time-wasting?
Not quite. Time-wasting is one way to kill a game, but a late goal that ends the contest also 'kills' it.
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