Question Number: 15634

Law 1- The Field 5/29/2007

RE: Under 17

J C of Lexington, NC USA asks...

What is the purpose of the GOAL box, other then for goal kicks.

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

The goal area is used for the placement of outbound free kicks, including a goal kick. The ball may be placed anywhere in the goal area.

It is also used for ball placement on inbound indirect free kicks for offenses which occurred in the goal area. The ball is placed on the longer boundary line of the goal area (the "6-yard-line") nearest to the point of the infraction.

Ages ago, there used to be something about charging the keeper related to the goal area. The keeper [could/couldn't] be charged [inside/outside] the goal area while the ball [was/wasn't] in his possession. It's so long ago I don't remember which one of each [ / ] pair applied - I never reffed under that version of the Laws.

Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

It is called the goal area. On a goal kick, the ball may be placed anywhere inside of the goal area to the defenders. On a kick going out where the infraction occurred inside the goal area, the ball may also be placed anywere in goal area. If there is a foul inside goal area going in, then the ball is placed at the point on top of goal area closest to where the infraction occurred. Those are a few of its other applications.

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

Historically the goal area was the area in which the keeper could not be charged. Once he has passed out of the 6x20 yard goal area he was fair game. Then Law XII, 4 read.

Charging the goalkeeper except when he

[a] is holding the ball;

[b] is obstructing his opponent;

[c] has passed outside his goal-area.

Regards,