Soccer Terms | Laws | Indoor Soccer | Soccer Page
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Advantage: Rule that lets play continue after a foul, if stopping the action immediately would be disadvantageous to the team that was fouled.
| Back Pass: A pass made to a trailing player.
| Bicycle Kick: Overhead kick, also called a scissors kick.
| Chip: A high pass over a defender's head to a teammate, or a shot on goal from close range away from the goalie's reach.
| Corner Kick: Method of restarting play after the defending team has cleared the ball over its own goal line. The ball is placed at the point where the sideline and goal line intersect, with the attacking team awarded a free kick that may be shot directly into the goal.
| Dangerous Play: An action that could cause injury in the opinion of the referee. The offending team loses possession of the ball and the opponent is awarded a free kick from the point of the infraction.
| Direct Free Kick: A free kick that can result in a goal.
| Dribble: To control the ball on the ground with the feet.
| End Line: Boundary lines marking the ends of the field.
| Far Post: Goalpost farthest from the ball.
| Field: Regulation Soccer field.
| Formations: 4-3-3, for example, refers to four defenders, three midfielders and three forwards. Formations are listed from the defense out.
| Give-and-go: A player making a short pass to a teammate and then receiving the return pass. (Also referred to as the "Wall Pass" or the "Double Pass".)
| Heading: Using one's head to score, pass or control the ball.
| Header: The act of heading a ball.
| Indirect Free Kick: Free kick that can't result in a goal unless it touches another player first.
| Injury Time: Time added to the end of each half to compensate for stoppages due to injuries, the scoring of a goal or time-wasting.
| Midfielder: Player who functions primarily in the middle of the field, linking play between forwards and defenders.
| Near Post: Goal post nearest to the ball.
| Obstruction: Illegally preventing an opponent from playing the ball by blocking their path to the ball. Results in an indirect free kick.
| Offside: Infraction in which an offensive player does not have at least two defensive players between his or herself and the goal line when the ball is last played forward by a member of the attacking team.
| Penalty Area: 44-yard by 18-yard area in front of the goal in which the goalkeeper may use their hands.
| Penalty Kick: Direct free kick from 12 yards in front of the goal.
| Pitch: British term for the playing field.
| Red Card: Card held aloft by the referee to signify that a player is being ejected from the match.
| Screening (or shielding): When dribbling, staying between the ball and the opponent to protect the ball.
| Slide Tackle: Stripping the ball from a dribbler by making contact with the ball while sliding on the turf.
| Striker: Player whose main responsibility is scoring.
| Sweeper: A roving defender who plays between the fullbacks and the goaltender.
| Tackle: To take the ball away from an opponent by using the feet.
| Through-pass (or ball): A pass that splits a group of defenders.
| Throw-in: Method of returning the ball to play after it has gone over the sideline and was last touched by an opponent.
| Touchline (or sideline): Line marking the side of the field.
| Trap: To bring the ball under control with any part of the body.
| Volley: Kicking the ball in or out of mid-air.
| Wall: Group of defenders standing shoulder-to-shoulder to defend a free kick, usually near the goal.
| Yellow card: Card held aloft by the referee to warn a player that any further misconduct will cause their ejection from the game. |
Number of Players
A. A team on the court shall consist
of not more than six players (one of whom is a goalkeeper and two of whom should
be female). If a team has only one or no women, a maximum of four men can play
at once. Acton Indoor Sports Center games will be 6 on 6.
B. Teams must have a minimum of five
players to start a game. Any team failing to field five players within ten
minutes of start time will be forced to forfeit and will be credited with a
loss.
C. Substitution are made "on the
fly" and may occur on an unlimited basis provided the player leaving the
floor arrives at the bench before the replacement enters the field of play.
D. Only players on the roster are
eligible to play. Players may be added to a team's roster up until their 3rd
game. If an unrostered player plays it will result in a forfeit.
Duration of Games
A. Two 25 minute halves, running
clock. If a game ends in a tie, it will remain that way with the exception of
the play-offs. Half-time will not be more than three minutes and not less than
one minute.
Ball in and Out of Play
A. The ball is out of play and
restarted with an Indirect Free Kick when the ball had traveled into an
unplayable area, or hits the ceiling.
B. The ball is in play at all other
times from the start of the game to the finish, including: If it rebounds off
the referee when he/she is on the field of play or in the event of a supposed
infringement of the rules. Play the whistle!
Methods of Scoring
A. A goal is scored when the entire
ball hits inside the boundaries of the goal. The official will designate when a
goal has been scored by blowing the whistle and pointing to the center circle
for a restart.
Fouls and Misconduct
A. A player who intentionally kicks or
attempts to kick, trip, jumps, charges, strikes or attempts to strike, holds or
pushes an opponent or handles the ball - (e.g. carries, strikes or propels the
ball with the arm) has committed a foul. All fouls shall be penalized by
awarding a Direct Free Kick.
B. Should a player on the defending
side intentionally commit one of the listed offences within his/her own penalty
area, it will result in a penalty kick.
C. The following offences are
penalized with a two minute penalty, five minute penalty, or game misconduct. A
Direct Free Kick is also awarded at the point of infringement for playing in a
manner considered dangerous(e.g. attempting to kick the ball while held by
goalkeeper): Boarding an opponent, Encroachment (a player must stand three yards
from all free kicks).
D. Break-away fouls will result in a
penalty kick and a five minute hard penalty for the offender.
Serving Penalties
A. A player who commits an offense and is
penalized for two minutes shall serve the penalty in full, or until the opponent
is awarded a goal. The referee will notify the opponent when it has been served.
B. A five minute "hard
penalty" must be served in full.
C. Flagrant or intentional offences
which occur during the final two minutes of regulation or overtime, will result
in automatic ejection from the game, and an additional one-game suspension.
D. Any ejection will result in a
one-game suspension. Second ejection results in league suspension.
Goalkeeper Restrictions
A. Goalie throws must hit the floor,
side wall or player before crossing the third line or an Indirect Free Kick will
be awarded to the opposite team at the closest line to the goalie.
B. Goalkeepers have five seconds to
distribute the ball after gaining control. Indirect Free Kick awarded.
C. A goalkeeper may not touch or pick
up any ball which he/she dribbles into the penalty area. IDFK
D. The goalie is not allowed to drop
kick or punt the ball. IDFK
E. Goalkeeper may not take more than 4
steps while holding, bouncing or throwing the ball. IDFK F. Goalkeeper may not
handle a ball that has been footed by a teammate. IDFK
Miscellaneous
Interpretations
A. Indoor shoes - only indoor shoes or
sneakers with non-marking soles. No cleats or black soles.
B. Three line rule (Acton only): this
occurs when the ball travels in the air over all three lines without hitting any
part of the wall, floor or a player. Violations will result in the ball being
awarded to the opposing team at the closest line from which the ball was kicked.
Three line violation does not apply to balls being kicked from a line or landing
on a line.
C. Shinguards -
FIFA
OFFICIAL LAWS
Effective 1 July 1998
According to the International Football Association Board at its 112th annual
meeting in Paris on 6 March 1998.
SEARCH THE 17 LAWS
Dimensions
The field of play must be rectangular. The length of the touch line must be greater than the length of the goal line.
Length: minimum 90 m (100 yds)
maximum 120 m (130 yds)
Width: minimum 45 m (50 yds)
maximum 90 m (100 yds)
International Matches
Length: minimum 100 m (110 yds)
maximum 110 m (120 yds)
Width: minimum 64 m (70 yds)
maximum 75 m (80 yds)
Field Markings
The field of play is marked with lines. These lines belong to the areas of which they are boundaries.
The two longer boundary lines are called touch lines. The two shorter lines are called goal lines.
All lines are not more than 12 cm (5 ins) wide.
The field of play is divided into two halves by a halfway line.
The centre mark is indicated at the midpoint of the halfway line. A circle with a radius of 9.15 m (10 yds) is marked around it.
The Goal Area
A goal area is defined at each end of the field as follows:
Two lines are drawn at right angles to the goal line, 5.5 m (6 yds) from the inside of each goalpost. These lines extend into the field of play for a distance of 5.5 m (6 yds) and are joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal line. The area bounded by these lines and the goal line is the goal area.
The Penalty Area
A penalty area is defined at each end of the field as follows:
Two lines are drawn at right angles to the goal line, 16.5 m (18 yds) from the inside of each goalpost. These lines extend into the field of play for a distance of 16.5 m (18 yds) and are joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal line. The area bounded by these lines and the goal line is the penalty area.
Within each penalty area a penalty mark
is made 11 m (12 yds) from the midpoint between the goalposts and equidistant to
them. An arc of a circle with a radius of
9.15 m (10 yds) from each penalty mark is drawn outside the penalty area.
Flagposts
A flagpost, not less than 1.5 m (5 ft) high, with a non-pointed top and a flag is placed at each corner.
Flagposts may also be placed at each end of the halfway line, not less than 1 m (1 yd) outside the touch line.
The Corner Arc
A quarter circle with a radius of 1 m (1 yd) from each corner flagpost is drawn inside the field of play.
Goals
Goals must be placed on the centre of each goal line.
They consist of two upright posts equidistant from the corner flagposts and joined at the top by a horizontal crossbar.
The distance between the posts is 7.32 m
(8 yds) and the distance from the lower edge of the crossbar to the ground is
2.44 m (8 ft).
Both goalposts and the crossbar have the same width and depth which do not exceed 12 cm (5 ins). The goal lines are the same width as that of the goalposts and the crossbar. Nets may be attached to the goals and the ground behind the goal, provided that they are properly supported and do not interfere with the goalkeeper.
The goalposts and crossbars must be white.
Safety
Goals must be anchored securely to the ground. Portable goals may only be used if they satisfy this requirement.
The Field of Play
Corner Flagpost
Metric Measurements
Imperial Measurements
Decisions of the International F.A. Board
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Decision 1If the crossbar becomes displaced or broken, play is stopped until it has been repaired or replaced in position. If a repair is not possible, the match is abandoned. The use of a rope to replace the crossbar is not permitted. If the crossbar can be repaired, the match is restarted with a dropped ball at the place where the ball was located when play was stopped. * (see page 3)
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Decision 2Goalposts and crossbars must be made of wood, metal or other approved material. Their shape may be square, rectangular, round or elliptical and they must not be dangerous to players.
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Decision 3No kind of commercial advertising, whether real or virtual, is permitted on the field of play and field equipment (including the goal nets and the areas they enclose) from the time the teams enter the field of play until they have left it at half-time and from the time the teams re-enter the field of play until the end of the match. In particular, no advertising material of any kind may be displayed on goals, nets, flagposts or their flags. No extraneous equipment (cameras, microphones, etc.) may be attached to these items.
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Decision 4The reproduction, whether real or virtual, of representative logos or emblems of FIFA, confederations, national associations, leagues, clubs or other bodies, is forbidden on the field of play and field equipment (including the goal nets and the areas they enclose) during playing time, as described in Decision 3.
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Decision 5A mark may be made off the field of play, 9.15 metres (10 yds) from the corner arc and at right angles to the goal lines to ensure that this distance is observed when a corner kick is being taken.
Qualities and Measurements
The ball is:
spherical
made of leather or other suitable material
of a circumference of not more than 70 cm
not more than 450 g (16 oz) in weight and not less than 410 g (14 oz) at the start of the match
of a pressure equal to 0.6 1.1 atmosphere (600 1100 g/cm2) at sea level (8.5 lbs/sq in 15.6 lbs/sq in)Replacement of a Defective Ball
If the ball bursts or becomes defective during the course of a match:
the match is stopped
the match is restarted by dropping the replacement ball at the place where the first ball became defective * (see page 3)If the ball bursts or becomes defective whilst not in play at a kick-off, goal kick, corner kick, free kick, penalty kick or throw-in:
the match is restarted accordinglyThe ball may not be changed during the match without the authority of the referee.
Decisions of the International F.A. Board
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Decision 1In competition matches, only footballs which meet the minimum technical requirements stipulated in Law 2 are permitted for use.
In FIFA competition matches, and in competition matches organised under the auspices of the confederations, acceptance of a football for use is conditional upon the football bearing one of the following three designations:
the official "FIFA APPROVED" logo,
or
the official "FIFA INSPECTED" logo,
or
the reference "International Matchball Standard"
Such a designation on a football indicates that it has been tested officially and found to be in compliance with specific technical requirements, different for each category and additional to the minimum specifications stipulated in Law 2. The list of the additional requirements specific to each of the respective categories must be approved by the International F.A. Board. The institutes conducting the tests are subject to the approval of FIFA.
National association competitions may require the use of balls bearing any one of these three designations.
In all other matches the ball used must satisfy the requirements of Law 2.
Decision 2
In FIFA competition matches and in competition matches organised under the auspices of the confederations and national associations, no kind of commercial advertising on the ball is permitted, except for the emblem of the competition, the competition organiser and the authorised trademark of the manufacturer. The competition regulations may restrict the size and number of such markings.
Players
A match is played by two teams, each consisting of not more than eleven players, one of whom is the goalkeeper. A match may not start if either team consists of fewer than seven players.
Official Competitions
Up to a maximum of three substitutes may be used in any match played in an official competition organised under the auspices of FIFA, the confederations or the national associations.
The rules of the competition must state how many substitutes may be nominated, from three up to a maximum of seven.
Other Matches
In other matches, up to five substitutes may be used, provided that:
the teams concerned reach agreement on a maximum number
the referee is informed before the matchIf the referee is not informed, or if no agreement is reached before the start of the match, no more than three substitutes are allowed.
All Matches
In all matches the names of the substitutes must be given to the referee prior to the start of the match. Substitutes not so named may not take part in the match.
Substitution Procedure
To replace a player by a substitute, the following conditions must be observed:
the referee is informed before any proposed substitution is made
a substitute only enters the field of play after the player being replaced has left and after receiving a signal from the referee
a substitute only enters the field of play at the halfway line and during a stoppage in the match
a substitution is completed when a substitute enters the field of play
from that moment, the substitute becomes a player and the player he has replaced ceases to be a player
a player who has been replaced takes no further part in the match
all substitutes are subject to the authority and jurisdiction of the referee, whether called upon to play or notChanging the Goalkeeper
Any of the other players may change places with the goalkeeper, provided that:
the referee is informed before the change is made
the change is made during a stoppage in the matchInfringements/Sanctions
If a substitute enters the field of play without the referees permission:
play is stopped
the substitute is cautioned, shown the yellow card and required to leave the field of play
play is restarted with a dropped ball at the place it was located when play was stopped *If a player changes places with the goalkeeper without the referees permission before the change is made:
play continues
the players concerned are cautioned and shown the yellow card when the ball is next out of playFor any other infringements of this Law:
the players concerned are cautioned and shown the yellow cardRestart of Play
If play is stopped by the referee to administer a caution:
the match is restarted by an indirect free kick, to be taken by a player of the opposing team from the place where the ball was located when play was stopped * (see page 3)Players and Substitutes Sent Off
A player who has been sent off before the kick-off may be replaced only by one of the named substitutes.
A named substitute who has been sent off, either before the kick-off or after play has started, may not be replaced.
Decisions of the International F.A. Board
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Decision 1Subject to the overriding conditions of Law 3, the minimum number of players in a team is left to the discretion of national associations. The Board is of the opinion, however, that a match should not continue if there are fewer than seven players in either team.
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Decision 2The coach may convey tactical instructions to the players during the match. He and the other officials must remain within the confines of the technical area, where such an area is provided, and they must behave in a responsible manner.
LAW 4 The Players Equipment
Safety
A player must not use equipment or wear anything which is dangerous to himself or another player (including any kind of jewellery).
Basic Equipment
The basic compulsory equipment of a player is:
a jersey or shirt
shorts if thermal undershorts are worn, they are of the same main colour as the shorts
stockings
shinguards
footwearShinguards
are covered entirely by the stockings
are made of a suitable material (rubber, plastic, or similar substances)
provide a reasonable degree of protectionGoalkeepers
each goalkeeper wears colours which distinguish him from the other players, the referee and the assistant refereesInfringements/Sanctions
For any infringement of this Law:
play need not be stopped
the player at fault is instructed by the referee to leave the field of play to correct his equipment
the player leaves the field of play when the ball next ceases to be in play, unless he has already corrected his equipment
any player required to leave the field of play to correct his equipment does not re-enter without the referees permission
the referee checks that the players equipment is correct before allowing him to re-enter the field of play
the player is only allowed to re-enter the field of play when the ball is out of playA player who has been required to leave the field of play because of an infringement of this Law and who enters (or re-enters) the field of play without the referees permission is cautioned and shown the yellow card.
Restart of Play
If play is stopped by the referee to administer a caution:
the match is restarted by an indirect free kick taken by a player of the opposing side, from the place where the ball was located when the referee stopped the match * (see page 3)The Authority of the Referee
Each match is controlled by a referee who has full authority to enforce the Laws of the Game in connection with the match to which he has been appointed.
Powers and Duties
The Referee:
enforces the Laws of the Game
controls the match in co-operation with the assistant referees and, where applicable, with the fourth official
ensures that the ball meets the requirements of Law 2
ensures that the players equipment meets the requirements of Law 4
acts as timekeeper and keeps a record of the match
stops, suspends or terminates the match, at his discretion, for any infringements of the Laws
stops, suspends or terminates the match because of outside interference of any kind
stops the match if, in his opinion, a player is seriously injured and ensures that he is removed from the field of play
allows play to continue until the ball is out of play if a player is, in his opinion, only slightly injured
ensures that any player bleeding from a wound leaves the field of play. The player may only return on receiving a signal from the referee, who must be satisfied that the bleeding has stopped
allows play to continue when the team against which an offence has been committed will benefit from such an advantage and penalises the original offence if the anticipated advantage does not ensue at that time
punishes the more serious offence when a player commits more than one offence at the same time
takes disciplinary action against players guilty of cautionable and sending-off offences. He is not obliged to take this action immediately but must do so when the ball next goes out of play
takes action against team officials who fail to conduct themselves in a responsible manner and may at his discretion, expel them from the field of play and its immediate surrounds
acts on the advice of assistant referees regarding incidents which he has not seen
ensures that no unauthorised persons enter the field of play
restarts the match after it has been stopped
provides the appropriate authorities with a match report which includes information on any disciplinary action taken against players, and/or team officials and any other incidents which occurred before, during or after the matchDecisions of the Referee
The decisions of the referee regarding facts connected with play are final.
The referee may only change a decision on realising that it is incorrect or, at his discretion, on the advice of an assistant referee, provided that he has not restarted play.
Decisions of the International F.A. Board
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Decision 1A referee (or where applicable, an assistant referee or fourth official) is not held liable for:
any kind of injury suffered by a player, official or spectator
any damage to property of any kind
any other loss suffered by any individual, club, company, association or other body, which is due or which may be due to any decision which he may take under the terms of the Laws of the Game or in respect of the normal procedures required to hold, play and control a match.
This may include:
a decision that the condition of the field of play or its surrounds or that the weather conditions are such as to allow or not to allow a match to take place
a decision to abandon a match for whatever reason
a decision as to the condition of the fixtures or equipment used during a match including the goalposts, crossbar, flagposts and the ball
a decision to stop or not to stop a match due to spectator interference or any problem in the spectator area
a decision to stop or not to stop play to allow an injured player to be removed from the field of play for treatment
a decision to request or insist that an injured player be removed from the field of play for treatment
a decision to allow or not to allow a player to wear certain apparel or equipment
a decision (in so far as this may be his responsibility) to allow or not to allow any persons (including team or stadium officials, security officers, photographers or other media representatives) to be present in the vicinity of the field of play
any other decision which he may take in accordance with the Laws of the Game or in conformity with his duties under the terms of FIFA, confederation, national association or league rules or regulations under which the match is playedl
Decision 2In tournaments or competitions where a fourth official is appointed, his role and duties must be in accordance with the guidelines approved by the International F.A. Board.
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Decision 3Facts connected with play shall include whether a goal is scored or not and the result of the match.
LAW 6 The Assistant Referees
Duties
Two assistant referees are appointed whose duties, subject to the decision of the referee, are to indicate:
when the whole of the ball has passed out of the field of play
which side is entitled to a corner kick, goal kick or throw-in
when a player may be penalised for being in an offside position
when a substitution is requested
when misconduct or any other incident has occurred out of the view of the refereeAssistance
The assistant referees also assist the referee to control the match in accordance with the Laws of the Game.
In the event of undue interference or improper conduct, the referee will relieve an assistant referee of his duties and make a report to the appropriate authorities.
LAW 7 The Duration of the Match
Periods of Play
The match lasts two equal periods of
45 minutes, unless otherwise mutually agreed between the referee and the two
participating teams. Any agreement to alter the periods
of play (for example to reduce each half to
40 minutes because of insufficient light) must be made before the start of play
and must comply with competition rules.
Half-Time Interval
Players are entitled to an interval
at half-time.
The half-time interval must not exceed
15 minutes.
Competition rules must state the duration of the half-time interval.
The duration of the half-time interval may be altered only with the consent of the referee.
Allowance for Time Lost
Allowance is made in either period for all time lost through:
substitution(s)
assessment of injury to players
removal of injured players from the field of play for treatment
wasting time
any other causeThe allowance for time lost is at the discretion of the referee.
Penalty Kick
If a penalty kick has to be taken or retaken, the duration of either half is extended until the penalty kick is completed.
Extra Time
Competition rules may provide for two further equal periods to be played. The conditions of Law 8 will apply.
Abandoned Match
An abandoned match is replayed unless the competition rules provide otherwise.
LAW 8 The Start and Restart of Play
Preliminaries
A coin is tossed and the team which wins the toss decides which goal it will attack in the first half of the match.
The other team takes the kick-off to start the match.
The team which wins the toss takes the kick-off to start the second half of the match.
In the second half of the match the teams change ends and attack the opposite goals.
Kick-off
A kick-off is a way of starting or restarting play:
at the start of the match
after a goal has been scored
at the start of the second half of the match
at the start of each period of extra time, where applicableA goal may be scored directly from the
kick-off.
Procedure
all players are in their own half of the field
the opponents of the team taking the kick-off are at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball until it is in play
the ball is stationary on the centre mark
the referee gives a signal
the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward
the kicker does not touch the ball a second time until it has touched another playerAfter a team scores a goal, the kick-off is taken by the other team.
Infringements/Sanctions
If the kicker touches the ball a second time before it has touched another player:
an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred * (see page 3)For any other infringement of the kick-off procedure:
the kick-off is retakenDropped Ball
A dropped ball is a way of restarting the match after a temporary stoppage which becomes necessary, while the ball is in play, for any reason not mentioned elsewhere in the Laws of the Game.
Procedure
The referee drops the ball at the place where it was located when play was
stopped. *
(see page 3)
Play restarts when the ball touches the ground.
Infringements/Sanctions
The ball is dropped again:
if it is touched by a player before it makes contact with the ground
if the ball leaves the field of play after it makes contact with the ground, without a player touching itSpecial Circumstances
A free kick awarded to the defending team inside its own goal area is taken from any point within the goal area.
An indirect free kick awarded to the attacking team in its opponents goal area is taken from the goal area line parallel to the goal line at the point nearest to where the infringement occurred.
A dropped ball to restart the match after play has been temporarily stopped inside the goal area takes place on the goal area line parallel to the goal line at the point nearest to where the ball was located when play was stopped.
LAW 9 The Ball In and Out of Play
Ball Out of Play
The ball is out of play when:
it has wholly crossed the goal line or touch line whether on the ground or in the air
play has been stopped by the refereeBall In Play
The ball is in play at all other times, including when:
it rebounds from a goalpost, crossbar or corner flagpost and remains in the field of play
it rebounds from either the referee or an assistant referee when they are on the field of playLAW 10 The Method of Scoring
Goal Scored
A goal is scored when the whole of the ball passes over the goal line, between the goalposts and under the crossbar, provided that no infringement of the Laws of the Game has been committed previously by the team scoring the goal.
Winning Team
The team scoring the greater number of goals during a match is the winner. If both teams score an equal number of goals, or if no goals are scored, the match is drawn.
Competition Rules
For matches ending in a draw, competition rules may state provisions involving extra time, or other procedures approved by the International F.A. Board to determine the winner of a match.
Offside Position
It is not an offence in itself to be in an offside position.
A player is in an offside position if:
he is nearer to his opponents goal line than both the ball and the second last opponentA player is not in an offside position if:
he is in his own half of the field of playOffence
A player in an offside position is only penalised if, at the moment the ball touches or is played by one of his team, he is, in the opinion of the referee, involved in active play by:
interfering with playNo Offence
There is no offside offence if a player receives the ball directly from:
a goal kickInfringements/Sanctions
For any offside offence, the referee awards an indirect free kick to the opposing team to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred. * (see page 3)
Fouls and misconduct are penalised as follows:
Direct Free Kick
A direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player commits any of the following six offences in a manner considered by the referee to be careless, reckless or using excessive force:
kicks or attempts to kick an opponent
trips or attempts to trip an opponent
jumps at an opponent
charges an opponent
strikes or attempts to strike an opponent
pushes an opponentA direct free kick is also awarded to the opposing team if a player commits any of the following four offences:
tackles an opponent to gain possession of the ball, making contact with the opponent before touching the ball
holds an opponent
spits at an opponent
handles the ball deliberately (except for the goalkeeper within his own penalty area)A direct free kick is taken from where the offence occurred. * (see page 3)
Penalty Kick
A penalty kick is awarded if any of the above ten offences is committed by a player inside his own penalty area, irrespective of the position of the ball, provided it is in play.
Indirect Free Kick
An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a goalkeeper, inside his own penalty area, commits any of the following five offences:
takes more than four steps while controlling the ball with his hands, before releasing it from his possession
touches the ball again with his hands after it has been released from his possession and has not touched any other player
touches the ball with his hands after it has been deliberately kicked to him by a team-mate
touches the ball with his hands after he has received it directly from a throw-in taken by a team-mate
wastes timeAn indirect free kick is also awarded to the opposing team if a player, in the opinion of the referee:
plays in a dangerous manner
impedes the progress of an opponent
prevents the goalkeeper from releasing the ball from his hands
commits any other offence, not previously mentioned in Law 12, for which play is stopped to caution or dismiss a playerThe indirect free kick is taken from where the offence occurred. * (see page 3)
Disciplinary Sanctions
Cautionable Offences
A player is cautioned and shown the yellow card if he commits any of the following seven offences:
is guilty of unsporting behaviour1.
2. shows dissent by word or action
3. persistently infringes the Laws of the Game
4. delays the restart of play
5. fails to respect the required distance when play is restarted with a corner kick or free kick
6. enters or re-enters the field of play without the referees permission
7. deliberately leaves the field of play without the referees permission
Sending-Off Offences
A player is sent off and shown the red card if he commits any of the following seven offences:
1.
is guilty of serious foul play2.
is guilty of violent conduct3.
spits at an opponent or any other person4.
denies the opposing team a goal or an obvious goal-scoring opportunity by deliberately handling the ball (this does not apply to a goalkeeper within his own penalty area)5.
denies an obvious goal-scoring opportunity to an opponent moving towards the players goal by an offence punishable by a free kick or a penalty kick6.
uses offensive, insulting or abusive language7.
receives a second caution in the same match
Decisions of the International F.A. Board
l Decision 1
A penalty kick is awarded if, while the ball is in play, the goalkeeper, inside his own penalty area, strikes or attempts to strike an opponent by throwing the ball at him.
l Decision 2
A player who commits a cautionable or sending-off offence, either on or off the field of play, whether directed towards an opponent, a team-mate, the referee, an assistant referee or any other person, is disciplined according to the nature of the offence committed.
l Decision 3
The goalkeeper is considered to be in control of the ball by touching it with any part of his hand or arms. Possession of the ball includes the goalkeeper deliberately parrying the ball, but does not include the circumstances where, in the opinion of the referee, the ball rebounds accidentally from the goalkeeper, for example after he has made a save.
The goalkeeper is considered to be guilty of time-wasting if he holds the ball in his hands or arms for more than 5-6 seconds.
l Decision 4
Subject to the terms of Law 12, a player may pass the ball to his own goalkeeper using his head or chest or knee, etc. If, however, in the opinion of the referee, a player uses a deliberate trick while the ball is in play in order to circumvent the Law, the player is guilty of unsporting behaviour. He is cautioned, shown the yellow card and an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team from the place where the infringement occurred. * (see page 3)
A player using a deliberate trick to circumvent the Law while he is taking a free kick, is cautioned for unsporting behaviour and shown the yellow card. The free kick is retaken.
In such circumstances, it is irrelevant whether the goalkeeper subsequently touches the ball with his hands or not. The offence is committed by the player in attempting to circumvent both the letter and the spirit of Law 12.
l Decision 5
A tackle from behind, which endangers the safety of an opponent, must be sanctioned as serious foul play.
Types of Free Kicks
Free kicks are either direct or indirect.
For both direct and indirect free kicks, the ball must be stationary when the kick is taken and the kicker does not touch the ball a second time until it has touched another player.
The Direct Free Kick
if a direct free kick is kicked directly into the opponents goal, a goal is awarded
if a direct free kick is kicked directly into the teams own goal, a corner kick is awarded to the opposing team
The Indirect Free Kick
Signal
The referee indicates an indirect free kick by raising his arm above his head. He maintains his arm in that position until the kick has been taken and the ball has touched another player or goes out of play.
Ball Enters the Goal
A goal can be scored only if the ball subsequently touches another player before it enters the goal.
if an indirect free kick is kicked directly into the opponents goal, a goal kick is awarded
if an indirect free kick is kicked directly into the teams own goal, a corner kick is awarded to the opposing team
Position of Free Kick
Free Kick Inside the Penalty Area
Direct or indirect free kick to the defending team:
all opponents are at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball
all opponents remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play
the ball is in play when it is kicked directly beyond the penalty area
a free kick awarded in the goal area is taken from any point inside that area
Indirect free kick to the attacking team:
all opponents are at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball until it is in play, unless they are on their own goal line between the goalposts
the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves
an indirect free kick awarded inside the goal area is taken from that part of the goal area line which runs parallel to the goal line, at the point nearest to where the infringement occurred
Free Kick Outside the Penalty Area
all opponents are at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball until it is in play
the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves
the free kick is taken from the place where the infringement occurred
Infringements/Sanctions
If, when a free kick is taken, an opponent is closer to the ball than the required distance:
the kick is retaken
If, when a free kick is taken by the defending team from inside its own penalty area, the ball is not kicked directly into play:
the kick is retaken
Free kick taken by a player other than the goalkeeper
If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player:
an indirect free kick is
awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the
infringement occurred *
(see page 3)
If, after the ball is in play, the kicker deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player:
a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred * (see page 3)
a penalty kick is awarded if the infringement occurred inside the kickers penalty area
Free kick taken by the goalkeeper
If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper touches the ball a second time (except with his hands), before it has touched another player:
an indirect free kick is
awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the
infringement occurred *
(see page 3)
If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player:
a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred outside the goalkeepers penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred * (see page 3)
an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred inside the goalkeepers penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred * (see page 3)
A penalty kick is awarded against a team which commits one of the ten offences for which a direct free kick is awarded, inside its own penalty area and while the ball is in play.
A goal may be scored directly from a penalty kick.
Additional time is allowed for a penalty kick to be taken at the end of each half or at the end of periods of extra time.
Position of the Ball and the Players
The ball:
is placed on the penalty mark
The player taking the penalty kick:
is properly identified
The defending goalkeeper:
remains on his goal line, facing the kicker, between the goalposts until the ball has been kicked
The players other than the kicker are located:
inside the field of play
outside the penalty area
behind the penalty mark
at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the penalty mark
The Referee
does not signal for a penalty kick to be taken until the players have taken up position in accordance with the Law
decides when a penalty kick has been completed
Procedure
the player taking the penalty kicks the ball forward
he does not play the ball a second time until it has touched another player
the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward
When a penalty kick is taken during the normal course of play, or time has been extended at half-time or full time to allow a penalty kick to be taken or retaken, a goal is awarded if, before passing between the goalposts and under the crossbar:
the ball touches either or both of the goalposts and/or the crossbar, and/or the goalkeeper
Infringements/Sanctions
If the referee gives the signal for a penalty kick to be taken and, before the ball is in play, one of the following situations occurs:
The player taking the penalty kick infringes the Laws of the Game:
the referee allows the kick to proceed
if the ball enters the goal, the kick is retaken
if the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is not retaken
The goalkeeper infringes the Laws of the Game:
the referee allows the kick to proceed
if the ball enters the goal, a goal is awarded
if the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is retaken
A team-mate of the player taking the kick enters the penalty area or moves in front of or within 9.15 m (10 yds) of the penalty mark:
the referee allows the kick to proceed
if the ball enters the goal, the kick is retaken
if the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is not retaken
if the ball rebounds from the goalkeeper, the crossbar or the goal post and is touched by this player, the referee stops play and restarts the match with an indirect free kick to the defending team
A team-mate of the goalkeeper enters the penalty area or moves in front of or within 9.15 m (10 yds) of the penalty mark:
the referee allows the kick to proceed
if the ball enters the goal, a goal is awarded
if the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is retaken
A player of both the defending team and the attacking team infringe the Laws of the Game:
the kick is retaken
If, after the penalty kick has been taken:
The kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player:
an indirect free kick is
awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the
infringement occurred *
(see page 3)
The kicker deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player:
a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred * (see page 3)
The ball is touched by an outside agent as it moves forward:
the kick is retaken
The ball rebounds into the field of play from the goalkeeper, the crossbar or the goalposts, and is then touched by an outside agent:
the referee stops play
play is restarted with a
dropped ball at the place where it touched the outside agent *
(see page 3)
A throw-in is a method of restarting play.
A goal cannot be scored directly from a throw-in.
A throw-in is awarded:
when the whole of the ball passes over the touch line, either on the ground or in the air
from the point where it crossed the touch line
to the opponents of the player who last touched the ball
Procedure
At the moment of delivering the ball, the thrower:
faces the field of play
has part of each foot either on the touch line or on the ground outside the touch line
uses both hands
delivers the ball from behind and over his head
The thrower may not touch the ball again until it has touched another player.
The ball is in play immediately it enters the field of play.
Infringements/Sanctions
Throw-in taken by a player other than the goalkeeper
If, after the ball is in play, the thrower touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player:
an indirect free kick is
awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the
infringement occurred *
(see page 3)
If, after the ball is in play, the thrower deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player:
a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred * (see page 3)
a penalty kick is awarded if the infringement occurred inside the throwers penalty area
Throw-in taken by the goalkeeper
If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper touches the ball a second time (except with his hands), before it has touched another player:
an indirect free kick is
awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the
infringement occurred *
(see page 3)
If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player:
a direct free kick is
awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred outside the
goalkeepers penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the
infringement occurred *
(see page 3)
an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred inside the goalkeepers penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred * (see page 3)
If an opponent unfairly distracts or impedes the thrower:
he is cautioned for unsporting behaviour and shown the yellow card
For any other infringement of this Law:
the throw-in is taken by a player of the opposing team
A goal kick is a method of restarting play.
A goal may be scored directly from a goal kick, but only against the opposing team.
A goal kick is awarded when:
the whole of the ball, having last touched a player of the attacking team, passes over the goal line, either on the ground or in the air, and a goal is not scored in accordance with Law 10
Procedure
the ball is kicked from any point within the goal area by a player of the defending team
opponents remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play
the kicker does not play the ball a second time until it has touched another player
the ball is in play when it is kicked directly beyond the penalty area
Infringements/Sanctions
If the ball is not kicked directly into play beyond the penalty area:
the kick is retaken
Goal kick taken by a player other than the goalkeeper
If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player:
an indirect free kick is
awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the
infringement occurred *
(see page 3)
If, after the ball is in play, the kicker deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player:
a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred * (see page 3)
a penalty kick is awarded if the infringement occurred inside the kickers penalty area
Goal kick taken by the goalkeeper
If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player:
an indirect free kick is
awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the
infringement occurred *
(see page 3)
If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player:
a direct free kick is
awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred outside the
goalkeepers penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the
infringement occurred *
(see page 3)
an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred inside the goalkeepers penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred * (see page 3)
For any other infringement of this Law:
the kick is retaken
A corner kick is a method of restarting play.
A goal may be scored directly from a corner kick, but only against the opposing team.
A corner kick is awarded when:
the whole of the ball, having last touched a player of the defending team, passes over the goal line, either on the ground or in the air, and a goal is not scored in accordance with Law 10
Procedure
the ball is placed inside the corner arc at the nearest corner flagpost
the corner flagpost is not moved
opponents remain at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball until it is in play
the ball is kicked by a player of the attacking team
the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves
the kicker does not play the ball a second time until it has touched another player
Infringements/Sanctions
Corner kick taken by a player other than the goalkeeper
If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player:
an indirect free kick is
awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the
infringement occurred *
(see page 3)
If, after the ball is in play, the kicker deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player:
a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred * (see page 3)
a penalty kick is awarded if the infringement occurred inside the kickers penalty area
Corner kick taken by the goalkeeper
If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player:
an indirect free kick is
awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the
infringement occurred *
(see page 3)
If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player:
a direct free kick is
awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred outside the
goalkeepers penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the
infringement occurred *
(see page 3)
an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred inside the goalkeepers penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred * (see page 3)
For any other infringement:
the kick is retaken