Question Number: 14924

Mechanics 3/1/2007

Jon of London, UK asks...

This question is a follow up to question 14883

I think the signal you may be referring to is often only used when a PK decision must be given or not given and is only used at higher levels because try standing infront of 75,000 people and expect a coach to hear you shout NO FOUL PLAY ON. The gesture is in fact two arms in a sweeping sideways motion as if to say: No, i've seen it and it was fair." It is not an official signal but can be quite helpful and is regularly used in the EPL.

There are lots of signals that are used between CRs and ARs at higher levels for cautions and dismissals etc....makes it easier now with mics but without mics a quick hand in pocket or a tap on top pocket or the like depending on the referee helps to speed the process of agreeing you both saw the same or maybe you saw saomething more serious in which case the AR will come for a chat!!

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

Jon, the Advantage signal here in the US (and I believe per FIFA as well, although the static picture in the back of the Laws doesn't show the motion) is a scooping motion with the arms, starting next to the thighs, going downward then out and up, with palms raised. It is usually accompanied by shouting, "Advantage" and/or "Play On!" - and as you say, in a stadium setting the verbal indication is lost.

The alternate signals we were talking about in #14883 were not for indicating Advantage, but for indicating that the ref saw the incident and decided it wasn't a foul. As opposed to all the other times when we just missed the call.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

Jon I think you and I are saying the same thing. Advantage; sweep arms UPWARD. "I saw the play and no foul"; arms swept DOWN and to the SIDE. Haven't reffed in front of 75,000 but even in front of a few hundred screaming spectators, one can't hear much

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

I prefer a one HANDED NO NO NO GET UP or arm wave as a nothing there indicator but is it requested at the EPL or professional level in England to clue in those watching that you must in fact wave two arms in a sweeping sideways motion as if to say: No, i've seen it and it was fair." Plus how important to man or game management to signal so a coach can understand? He likely thinks you are wrong anyway! ;o) Cheers

The following questions were asked as a follow up to the above question...

See Question: 14936