Soccer with a 70-200 mm USM and x2 extender -- why results are so bad?

macobee wrote in post #17509119
Hi, i didnt even try, as it would defeat the purpose .....being distracted by fences/audiences etc in the background

I might agree if you were testing it at the venue. Seems as if most people would have tested it on a tripod before ever going there?

I have noticed mine is sharper at f/4 vs f/2.8.

I have the Non IS also. I shoot a ton of indoor sports so I'm at 2.8 most times. My lens is as sharp at 2.8 as at f.4 the problem is that the depth of field is so narrow you may miss focus and think it's the lens fault. Not saying this is your problem, but it does happen to me a lot.

I have never had good results using the 1.4 ext and my 70-200. I'm glad I'm not the only one. I suppose there is a way to get good results but unfortunately I do not know them. In fact, I have only used my extender 2-3 times...maybe I will sell it

A Canon 70-200mm f2.8L IS is quite fast with autofocus and the IQ is great. Using a 1.4 or 2x extended will slow down autofocus and reduce IQ. The v3 extender is better than the v1 and that is better than v1. However, none of them hold a candle to the speed (autofocus and f-stop) or IQ of Canon's 400mm f2.8L v1 or v2. Using AI Servo mode will help with moving subjects. You can pick up a used 400mm f2.8L IS v1 in good condition for about $6k. If you're needing or wanting to shoot field sports it is the lens to get.

Thanks guys, i understand. Matthew, 400 mm f2.8 i am only a Chef.......i will have to win the lotto for this one new or second hand

The 70-200 should be fine for what you want. Go behind and to one side of the goal and catch them on a run coming at you. I have also shot with it from a farther distance and cropped in pretty tight with a 7D and had great results.