Question Number: 12344

Law 2 - The Ball 3/12/2006

RE: traing to be a referee Under 17

liam cusworth of peterlee, co durham england asks...

the ball has three main properties the weight, circumference, and its must be sherical. but can you tell me if the ball was under weight and there was not a pump on either touch line. what wold you do would u play with the ball provided or abandon the game as the ball was under weight?

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

In order to not let a game commence due to a problem with the ball, it would have to be a severe problem. I'm not sure how you'd tell a ball was underweight anyway. I've never seen anyone with a gram scale on the field. We as referees do not need to be looking for reasons NOT to play. As long as the ball was the right size and playable, let it be.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Unlees we are talking a match in outer the edge of the world with a rag ball this is not likely a possible situation.
Here in North America most balls simply by touch and bounce can be adjudged as good enough to play. It is a VERY rare occassion only a single ball is present. If the ball appears to be under or over inflated ask for another or find a guage or pump that a referee COULD have in his kit bag so SHOULD every team equipment manager. If it is not an official ball but a $2 .oo ceral box thing and was the onlty thing available then this match is likely a kick around kids match that has little to offer except fun and play time. As long as it does not appear dangerous or about to explode and both teams are willing . If this was a match of any significance the ball is truly unsuitable as the ONLY ball record the incident and go home hopefully someone's butt will be kicked as pig's fly!
Cheers