Question Number: 14874

Mechanics 2/21/2007

RE: Professional

Vinnie Jordan of Monaco, France asks...

Does the referee need to blow for a "FREE KICK" to be taken as the term "FREE KICK" seems to imply you can kick it when you want?

Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

Most of them no. Players can kick whenever they want. Unless referee admins caution, send off, or stops play for any other reason.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Vinne,
have a look at 14873 for more thoughts on this topic.
You got it spot on FREE means free!

A referee gives permission for ANY ongoing play restart even if it simply is not saying anything to prevent it. A referee judges the method of how it was put in play, did the defenders interfere unfairly or the attackers try to be too liberal in the location or way the restart occured? He can then call it back and say no, we are not satisfied and we are now going to have it retaken properly with any cards required to be shown then shown.

What is refered to as a WHISTLE restart is often known as a ceremonial free kick that traditionally requires a whistle to clearly signal the referee wishes play to recommence.

During ongoing play if a foul occurs and the referee feels it must be a ceremonial restart due to cards being shown or simply because the attacking asked for his intervention he indicates to all by telling the kicker to wait for the whistle and do not move the ball from the restart position, often holding the whisle up and pointing to it and waving a hand in a no no gesture . These actions help when different languages are spoken! The defending team can now rest a bit easier as the wall and regrouping time is all but gifted back to them!


Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

The referee did blow the whistle indicating the free kick could be taken - it was the same sound that told everyone she was calling a foul.

The only time another whistle is needed is if the referee tells the kicking team to wait for her whistle, as she is dealing with some issue.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

Excellent point!!!! It's the responsibility of the referee to not further disadvantage the fouled team by refusing them this right