MAYO WOMEN'S SOCCER

LAW'S OF THE GAME

lineman GirlToon_ref OLD_REF ref-dropball

off side new rule

http://www.fifa.com/en/comp/Offside.html

Modifications

Subject to the agreement of the member association concerned and

Provided the principles of these Laws are maintained, the Laws may

Be modified in their application for matches for players of under 16

Years of age, for women footballers, for veteran footballers (over 35

Years) and for players with disabilities.

Any or all of the following modifications are permissible:

• size of the field of play

• size, weight and material of the ball

• width between the goalposts and height of the crossbar from the

ground

• duration of the periods of play

• substitutions

Further modifications are only allowed with the consent of the International

Football Association Board.

Male and Female

References to the male gender in the Laws of the Game in respect of

referees, assistant referees, players and officials are for simplification

and apply to both males and females.

Key

Throughout the Laws of the Game the following symbols are used:

* Unless covered by the Special Circumstances listed in Law 8 – The

Start and Restart of Play

Single line indicates new Law changes

NOTES ON THE LAWS OF THE GAME

CONTENTS

Law Page

1 The Field of Play X6

2 The Ball 14

3 The Number of Players 16

4 The Players’ Equipment 20

5 The Referee 22

6 The Assistant Referees 26

7 The Duration of the Match 27

8 The Start and Restart of Play 29

9 The Ball In and Out of Play 32

10 The Method of Scoring 33

11 Offside 34

12 Fouls and Misconduct 36

13 Free Kicks 41

14 The Penalty Kick 44

15 The Throw-In 47

16 The Goal Kick 49

17 The Corner Kick 51

Procedures to Determine the Winner of a Match 53

The Technical Area 56

The Fourth Official 57

Referee Signals 58

Assistant Referee Signals 59

Law 11 Illustrations 1–13 60

Additional Instructions for Referees,

Assistant Referees and Fourth Officials 67

2005 FIFA Guidelines 75

Rules of the International Football Association Board 81

LAW 1 – THE FIELD OF PLAY

Field surface

Matches may be played on natural or artificial surfaces, according to

the rules of the competition.

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.

7.32m (8yds)

2.44m

(8ft)

LAW 1 – 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 flag posts

And joined at the top by a horizontal crossbar.

The distance between the posts is 7.32 m (8 yes) 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.

LAW 1 – THE FIELD OF PLAY

The Field of Play

Corner Flagpost

PENALTY AREA

GOAL LINE CORNER ARC

TOUCH LINE

CENTRE MARK

CENTRE CIRCLE

HALFWAY LINE

PENALTY ARC

FLAGPOST

(optional)

TOUCH LINE

GOAL LINE

GOAL AREA

PENALTY MARK

CORNER FLAGPOST

(compulsory)

OPTIONAL MARK

Flag to be not less than

1.5m/5ft high with a

non-pointed top

Lines to be not more

than 12cm/5ins wide

Corner flagpost is compulsory

Corner arc

Metric Measurements

Imperial Measurements

16.5m

1 metre radius

Length: Maximum 120m Minimum 90m

Width:

Maximum 90 metres Minimum 45 metres

7.32m

9.15m

11m

5.5m

16.5m

Radius:

9.15m

5.5m

9.15m

18 yards

1 yard radius

Length: Maximum 130 yards Minimum 100 yards

Width:

Maximum 100 yards Minimum 50 yards

8 yards

10 yards

12 yards

6 yards

18 yards

Radius:

6 yards

10 yards

LAW 1 – THE FIELD OF PLAY

Decisions of the International F.A. Board

Decision 1

If 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)

Decision 2

Goalposts 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.

Decision 3

No 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.

Decision 4

There shall be no advertising of any kind within the technical area or

within one metre from the touch line and outside the field of play on the

ground. Further, no advertising shall be allowed in the area between

the goal line and the goal nets.

Decision 5

The reproduction, whether real or virtual, of representative logos or

emblems of FIFA, confederations, member 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.

Decision 6

A 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.

Decision 7

Where artificial surfaces are used in either competition matches

between representative teams of member associations affiliated to

FIFA or international club competition matches, the surface must meet

the requirements of the FIFA Quality Concept for Artificial Turf or

the International Artificial Turf Standard, unless special dispensation

is given by FIFA.

Decision 8

Where a technical area exists, it must meet the requirements approved

by the International F.A. Board, which are contained in this publication.

LAW 2 – THE BALL

Qualities and Measurements

The ball is:

• spherical

• made of leather or other suitable material

• of a circumference of not more than 70 cm (28 ins) and not less

than 68 cm (27 ins)

• 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 accordingly

The ball may not be changed during the match without the authority

of the referee.

Decisions of the International F.A. Board

Decision 1

In 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.

Member 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 member 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.

LAW 3 – THE NUMBER OF PLAYERS

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 member 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 national A team matches, up to a maximum of six substitutes may

be used.

In all other matches, a greater number of substitutes may be used

provided that:

• the teams concerned reach agreement on a maximum number;

• the referee is informed before the match.

If the referee is not informed, or if no agreement is reached before the

match, no more than six 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 not

LAW 3 – THE NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Changing 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 match

Infringements/Sanctions

If a substitute enters the field of play without the referee’s permission:

• play is stopped

• the substitute is cautioned, shown the yellow card and required to

leave the field of play

• play is restarted with an indirect free kick at the place the ball was

located when play was stopped * (see page 3)

If a player changes places with the goalkeeper without the referee’s

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 play

For any other infringements of this Law:

• the players concerned are 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, 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

Decision 1

Subject to the overriding conditions of Law 3, the minimum number of

players in a team is left to the discretion of member associations. The

Board is of the opinion, however, that a match should not continue if

there are fewer than seven players in either team.

Decision 2

A team official may convey tactical instructions to the players during

the match and he must return to his position after giving these

instructions. All 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 that 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

• footwear

Shinguards

• are covered entirely by the stockings

• are made of a suitable material (rubber, plastic, or similar substances)

• provide a reasonable degree of protection

Goalkeepers

• each goalkeeper wears colours that distinguish him from the other

players, the referee and the assistant referees

Infringements/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 referee’s permission

• the referee checks that the player’s 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 play

A 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 referee’s 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)

Decisions of the International F.A. Board

Decision 1

• Players must not reveal undershirts that contain slogans or advertising.

A player removing his jersey to reveal slogans or advertising will be

sanctioned by the competition organiser.

• Jerseys must have sleeves.

LAW 5 – THE REFEREE

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 any ball used 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. An injured player

may only return to the field of play after the match has restarted

• 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 that 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 that occurred

before, during or after the match

Decisions 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 or terminated the match.

LAW 5 – THE REFEREE

Decisions of the International F.A. Board

Decision 1

A 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 that

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 that he may take in accordance with the Laws

of the Game or in conformity with his duties under the terms of

FIFA, confederation, member association or league rules or regulations

under which the match is played

Decision 2

In 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, which are contained in this

publication.

Decision 3

Facts 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 referee

• when offences have been committed whenever the assistants are

closer to the action than the referee (this includes, in particular

circumstances, offences committed in the penalty area)

• whether, at penalty kicks, the goalkeeper has moved forward

before the ball has been kicked and if the ball has crossed the

line

Assistance

The assistant referees also assist the referee to control the match in

accordance with the Laws of the Game. In particular, they may enter

the field of play to help control the 9.15m distance.

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.

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.

LAW 7 – THE DURATION OF THE MATCH

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 cause

The 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.

Abandoned Match

An abandoned match is replayed unless the competition rules provide

otherwise.

Preliminaries

A coin is tossed and the team that 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 that 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 applicable

A 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 player

After a team scores a goal, the kick-off is taken by the other team.

LAW 8 – THE START AND RESTART OF PLAY

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 retaken

Dropped Ball

A dropped ball is a way of restarting the match after a temporary stoppage

that becomes necessary, while the ball is in play, for any reason

not mentioned elsewhere in the Laws of the Game.

LAW 8 – THE START AND RESTART OF PLAY

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 it

Special 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 referee

Ball 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 play

Ball in play

Ball out of play

Ball in play

Ball rebounding from

Corner flag post, goal

Post or crossbar into

f ield of play is in play

Ball in play

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

When competition rules require there to be a winning team after a

match has been drawn, only the following procedures, which have

been approved by the International F.A. Board, are permitted

• Away goals rule

• Extra time

• Kicks from the penalty mark

Decisions of the International F.A. Board

Decision 1

Only procedures to determine the winner of a match, which are

approved by the International F.A. Board and contained in this publication,

are permitted in competition rules.

LAW 10 – THE METHOD OF SCORING

No goal

Goal

LAW 11 – OFFSIDE

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 opponent

A player is not in an offside position if:

• he is in his own half of the field of play or

• he is level with the second last opponent or

• he is level with the last two opponents

Offence

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 play or

• interfering with an opponent or

• gaining an advantage by being in that position

No Offence

There is no offside offence if a player receives the ball directly from:

• a goal kick or

• a throw-in or

• a corner kick

Infringements/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)

Decisions of the International F.A. Board

Decision 1

In the definition of offside position, “nearer to his opponents’ goal

line” means that any part of his head, body or feet is nearer to his

opponents’ goal line than both the ball and the second last opponent.

The arms are not included in this definition.

Decision 2

The definitions of elements of involvement in active play are as follows:

• Interfering with play means playing or touching the ball passed or

touched by a team-mate.

• Interfering with an opponent means preventing an opponent from

playing or being able to play the ball by clearly obstructing the

opponent’s line of vision or movements or making a gesture or

movement which, in the opinion of the referee, deceives or distracts

an opponent.

• Gaining an advantage by being in that position means playing a

ball that rebounds to him off a post or the crossbar having been

in an offside position or playing a ball that rebounds to him off an

opponent having been in an offside position.

LAW 12 – FOULS AND MISCONDUCT

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 opponent

A 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 four offences:

• takes more than six seconds 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

An 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 player

The indirect free kick is taken from where the offence occurred.* (see

page 3)

Disciplinary Sanctions

Only a player or substitute or substituted player may be shown the red

or yellow card.

The referee has the authority to take disciplinary sanctions, as from the

moment he enters the field of play until he leaves the field of play

after the final whistle.

LAW 12 – FOULS AND MISCONDUCT

Cautionable Offences

A player is cautioned and shown the yellow card if he commits any of

the following seven offences:

1. is guilty of unsporting behaviour

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 referee’s permission

7. deliberately leaves the field of play without the referee’s 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 play

2. is guilty of violent conduct

3. spits at an opponent or any other person

4. denies the opposing team a goal or an obvious goalscoring opportunity

by deliberately handling the ball (this does not apply to a

goalkeeper within his own penalty area)

5. denies an obvious goalscoring opportunity to an opponent moving

towards the player’s goal by an offence punishable by a free kick

or a penalty kick

6. uses offensive or insulting or abusive language and/or gestures

7. receives a second caution in the same match

A player who has been sent off must leave the vicinity of the field of

play and the technical area.

Decisions of the International F.A. Board

Decision 1

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.

Decision 2

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.

Decision 3

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.

LAW 12 – FOULS AND MISCONDUCT

Decision 4

A tackle, which endangers the safety of an opponent, must be sanctioned

as serious foul play.

Decision 5

Any simulating action anywhere on the field, which is intended to

deceive the referee, must be sanctioned as unsporting behaviour.

Decision 6

A player who removes his jersey when celebrating a goal must be

cautioned for unsporting behaviour.

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 team’s 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 team’s own goal,

a corner kick is awarded to the opposing team

LAW 13 – FREE KICKS

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

kicker’s 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 goalkeeper’s 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 goalkeeper’s penalty area, the

kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred

* (see page 3)

LAW 14 – THE PENALTY KICK

A penalty kick is awarded against a team that 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 referee stops play and restarts

the match with an indirect free kick to the defending team

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 referee stops play and restarts

the match with an indirect free kick to the defending team

• 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)

LAW 14 – THE PENALTY KICK

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.

All opponents must stand no less than 2 meters from the point at

which the throw-in is taken.

The ball is in play immediately after it enters the field of play.

LAW 15 – THE THROW-IN

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

thrower’s 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 goalkeeper’s 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 goalkeeper’s 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

LAW 15 – THE THROW-IN

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)

LAW 16 – THE GOAL KICK

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

kicker’s 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 goalkeeper’s 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 goalkeeper’s 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

LAW 16 – THE GOAL KICK

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

LAW 17 – THE CORNER KICK

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

kicker’s 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 goalkeeper’s 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 goalkeeper’s 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

Away goals, extra time and taking kicks from the penalty mark are

methods of determining the winning team where competition rules

require there to be a winning team after a match has been drawn.

Away Goals

Competition rules may provide that where teams play each other

home and away, if the scores are equal after the second match, any

goals scored at the ground of the opposing team will count double.

Extra Time

Competition rules may provide for two further equal periods, not

exceeding 15 minutes each, to be played. The conditions of Law 8

will apply.

Kicks from the penalty mark

Procedure

• The referee chooses the goal at which the kicks will be taken

• The referee tosses a coin and the team whose captain wins the

toss decides whether to take the first or the second kick

• The referee keeps a record of the kicks being taken

• Subject to the conditions explained below, both teams take five

kicks

• The kicks are taken alternately by the teams

• If, before both teams have taken five kicks, one has scored more

goals than the other could score, even if it were to complete its

five kicks, no more kicks are taken

• If, after both teams have taken five kicks, both have scored the

same number of goals, or have not scored any goals, kicks continue

to be taken in the same order until one team has scored a

goal more than the other from the same number of kicks

• A goalkeeper who is injured while kicks are being taken from the

penalty mark and is unable to continue as goalkeeper may be

replaced by a named substitute provided his team has not used the

maximum number of substitutes permitted under the competition

rules

PROCEDURES TO DETERMINE THE WINNER OF A MATCH

• With the exception of the foregoing case, only players who are

on the field of play at the end of the match, which includes extra

time where appropriate, are allowed to take kicks from the penalty

mark

• Each kick is taken by a different player and all eligible players must

take a kick before any player can take a second kick

• An eligible player may change places with the goalkeeper at any

time when kicks from the penalty mark are being taken

• Only the eligible players and match officials are permitted to

remain on the field of play when kicks from the penalty mark are

being taken

• All players, except the player taking the kick and the two goalkeepers,

must remain within the centre circle

• The goalkeeper who is the team-mate of the kicker must remain

on the field of play, outside the penalty area in which the kicks

are being taken, on the goal line where it meets the penalty area

boundary line

• Unless otherwise stated, the relevant Laws of the Game and International

F.A. Board

Decisions apply when kicks from the penalty mark are being

taken

PROCEDURES TO DETERMINE THE WINNER OF A MATCH

TAKING KICKS FROM THE PENALTY MARK

Goalkeeper of

Kicker’s team

Assistant referee

Kicker

Referee

No officials,

Coaches, etc.,

Allowed on field

Of play

Assistant referee

All other

Players within

Center circle

• When a team finishes the match with a greater number of players

than their opponents, they shall reduce their numbers to equate

with that of their opponents and inform the referee of the name

and number of each player excluded. The team captain has this

responsibility.

• Before the start of kicks from the penalty mark the referee shall

ensure that only an equal number of players from each team

remain within the centre circle and they shall take the kicks.

The technical area described in Law 3, International F.A. Board Decision

no. 2, relates particularly to matches played in stadium with a

designated seated area for technical staff and substitutes as shown

below.

Technical areas may vary between stadium, for example in size or location,

and the following notes are issued for general guidance.

• The technical area extends 1 m (1 yd) on either side of the designated

seated area and extends forward up to a distance of 1 m

(1 yd) from the touch line

• It is recommended that markings are used to define this area

• The number of persons permitted to occupy the technical area is

defined by the competition rules

• The occupants of the technical area are identified before the beginning

of the match in accordance with the competition rules

• Only one person at a time is authorized to convey tactical instructions

and he must return to his position after giving these instructions

• The coach and other officials must remain within the confines of

the technical area except in special circumstances, for example,

a physiotherapist or doctor entering the field of play, with the

Referee’s permission, to assess an injured player

• The coach and other occupants of the technical area must behave

in a responsible manner

THE TECHNICAL AREA

• The fourth official may be appointed under the competition rules

and officiates if any of the three match officials is unable to continue.

He assists the referee at all times

• Prior to the start of the competition, the organiser states clearly

whether, if the referee is unable to continue, the fourth official

takes over as the match referee or whether the senior assistant

referee takes over as referee with the fourth official becoming an

assistant referee

• The fourth official assists with any administrative duties before,

during and after the match, as required by the referee

• He is responsible for assisting with substitution procedures during

the match

• He supervises the replacement footballs, where required. If the

match ball has to be replaced during a match, he provides another

ball, on the instruction of the referee, thus keeping the delay to a

minimum

• He has the authority to check the equipment of substitutes before

they enter the field of play. If their equipment does not comply

with the Laws of the Game, he informs the referee

• He must indicate to the referee when the wrong player is cautioned

because of mistaken identity or when a player is not sent

off having been seen to be given a second caution or when violent

conduct occurs out of the view of the referee and assistant referees.

The referee, however, retains the authority to decide on all

points connected with play

• After the match, the fourth official must submit a report to the

appropriate authorities on any misconduct or other incident that

has occurred out of the view of the referee and the assistant referees.

The fourth official must advise the referee and his assistants

of any report being made

• He has the authority to inform the referee of irresponsible behaviour

by any occupant of the technical area

THE FOURTH OFFICIAL

REFEREE SIGNALS

Sending off

Indirect free kick Advantage

Direct free kick

Caution

ASSISTANT REFEREE SIGNALS

Substitution Offside Throw-in

Offside on the near

side of the field

Offside on the centre

of the field

Offside on the far

side of the field

An attacker in an offside position (A), not interfering with an opponent, touches

the ball.

The assistant referee should raise the flag when the player touches the ball.

An attacker in an offside position (A), not interfering with an opponent, does

not touché the ball.

The player cannot be penalised because he did not touch the ball.

Offside offence

Not offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of

the ball

Movement of

the player

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of

the ball

Movement of

the player

Interfering with play

(A)

An attacker in an offside position (A) runs towards the ball and a teammate in

onside position (B) runs also towards the ball and plays it.

Player (A) cannot be penalised because he did not touch the ball.

An attacker in an offside position (A1) runs towards the ball and plays it (A2).

The assistant referee should raise the flag when the player touches the ball (A2).

Not offside offence

Offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of

the ball

Movement of

the player

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of

the ball

Movement of

the player

Interfering with play

(B)

(A)

(A2)

(A1)

(2)

(1)

An attacker in an offside position (1) runs towards the ball and does not

touch the ball.

The assistant referee should signal “goal kick”.

An attacker in an offside position (A) is obstructing the goalkeeper’s line of

vision. He should be penalised because he prevents an opponent from playing or

being able to play the ball.

Offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of

the ball

Movement of

the player

Interfering with an opponent

(A)

Goal kick

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of

the ball

Movement of

the player

Interfering with play

(2)

(1)

An attacker in an offside position (A) is not obstructing the goalkeeper’s line of

vision or making a gesture or movement which deceives or distracts him.

An attacker in an offside position (A) runs towards the ball but he does not

prevent the opponent from playing or being able to play the ball.

(A) is not making any gesture or movement which deceives or distracts (B).

Not offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of

the ball

Movement of

the player

Interfering with an opponent

(A)

Not offside offence

Corner kick

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of

the ball

Movement of

the player

Interfering with an opponent

(A)

(B)

An attacker in an offside position (A) runs towards the ball preventing the opponent

(B) from playing or being able to play the ball.

Player (A) is making any gesture or movement which deceives or distracts player

(B).

The shot by a team-mate (A) rebounds from the goalkeeper to player (B) who is

penalised for playing the ball having been previously in an offside position.

Offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of

the ball

Movement of

the player

Interfering with an opponent

(A)

(B)

Offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of

the ball

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