Question Number: 16800

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 9/20/2007

RE: Varsity High School

Mark of Columbus, Ohio USA asks...

Can defenders "box in" or impede the keeper on a corner kicks by planting defenders on either side of the keeper. Then when the ball is played they defender would step out to block/impede or what I think would be obstruction on the keeper? Thanks- Mark

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

If the opponents are preventing the keeper from freely moving or following him as he moves BEFORE the kick is taken, the referee should blow his whistle and caution the opponents for unsporting behavior. If they do this AFTER the kick has commenced, then the whistle is blown and either an IFK is awarded for impeding the progress of an opponent or DFK for holding if contact is involved. If this behavior persists, there shold be more cautions in the future for persistent infringement.

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

Of course the opponents can prevent the keeper from moving. This assumes they don't mind loosing every corner kick or free kick to a direct free kick offence called holding. Also, sooner or later there is persistent infringement to consider. This isn't American football or basketball.

Regards,

Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

Not "ok". If they do this after the ball is kicked, then it should be at least an IFK to the defenser. If they do this before the kick, then the referee needs to intervene appropriatly - consider a caution.

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

Mark, unfortunately, this is a tactic too many referees never see as they are blind to it. As an assessor, it is one thing I look for when watching a referee work. Does she recognize this type of offense and does she have the courage and conviction to call it? As a referee, I always found the goalkeepers appreciated my attention to this area - especially since it meant several would-be goals were pulled out of the back of the net. The game is about demonstrating your skills, not about cheating to win - or at least it is supposed to be. Tactics are part of the game, but tactics that teach cheating are not to be admired.

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

See Question: 18918