Question Number: 10392

Law 3 - Number of Players 11/17/2005

RE: Select Under 12

Joe Morefield of Norton Shores, MI USA asks...

I had a situation where my opposing team scored the tying goal with too many players on the field. The AR caught it before the goal was scored (Waving his flag madly). The center ref showed the yellow card to the extra player and sent her off. Play had not yet restarted. the CR came over to me to explain what had hapened (I was paying attention to my own team). He told me that the goal would stand. I said to him "Ah, no it shouldnt". He said it was his call so I said "ok then". I complained in writing to my "governing soccer body" and it seems that nothing may be changed. I was very Polite, Respectful, and I didn't argue only to say my quote when he said the goal was going to stay. We then kicked the ball off and the game ended in a 1-1 tie. i can see why some coaches get upset at absoulutly wrong calls without any recourse.The only good news is that the "governing soccer body" has not yet made a firm decesion on it. I just hope they do the right thing. Comments?

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino 11/17/2005

The referee had time to reverse his decision as play has not restarted. How he could get this wrong especially after cautioning the extra player is beyond me. Your comment to the referee was polite and to the point. It was also correct. I hope the match officials handle this properly. Goal should never have counted. You may quote FIFA and USSF if you like. Answers on both their web sites. Also, I commend you for your restraint and the proper image you portrayed for your kids. We need more coahes like you. Keep up the good work.

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer 11/17/2005

He had time to get it right. He should have known Law 10 does not allow the scoring of a goal when the Laws of the Game have been infringed. He knew the Laws of the Game had been infringed, specifically Law 3 - The Number of Players, because he cautioned and removed the extra player. ..Hopefully the powers that be will see the light and the referee will be sitting at the wrong end of the table to have pointed questions directed at him. He won't be able to dig his way out of the hole he put himself in either. ..By the way, you'll find the teeth marks on your tongue will heal after time.....Regards,

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