Question Number: 18398

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 2/19/2008

RE: Rec/Select

Andy B of Oxford, MI US asks...

This question is a follow up to question 18345

With respect to the 6 second goalkeeper rule, what is the guidance for when the 'keeper catches a ball, then seemingly goes for a cross country jog around the area? He clearly has the ball under control but there seems to be a popular school of thought that the 6 seconds doesn't start until he comes to a stop - not something I agree with. Surely control is control, not movement, although I can understand there is a blurry line between the two.

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

The six seconds begins when the goalkeeper has recovered the ball and is capable of distributing it. If she makes a dramatic diving save and is sprawled out on the ground with the ball underneath her, we give her a moment or two to collect herself and get to her feet before the 6-second clock begins in our mind. But if it's an easy pickup of a ball, 6 seconds starts immediately. She can jog around the penalty area as much as she can during those 6 seconds, but then must release the ball.

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

Start the time allowed for possession when the keeper is up and able to do something with the ball besides lie about and check for bent or broken parts. A full length flying save usually ends in a thud as keeper and ball succumb to the effects of gravity. Collisions with the ground sometimes have serious consequences but usually only knock half the wind out of you. A second or three to sort things out is all it takes. After that most keepers will be standing up. Once they're up the limiting time starts. Don't get all pissy about an extra 2-3 seconds until you have warned a standing keeper to get on with things at least three times. After that he has demonstrated he doesn't care about the Law. You should at that point!

Regards,

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

You don't agree with it because it's not true. From the moment the keeper gets control with his hands, the six seconds start. If you think a keeper is abusing this then verbally tell him so. He continues then you blow your whistle and award the opponents an IFK inside the keeper's penalty area. This will certainly get his attention if words didn't

Answer provided by Referee Jon Sommer

This popular school of thought is not something I've ever heard of. The 6 seconds rule begins when the keeper takes control of the ball. This law is one of the better changes of the last few years, allowing the goalkeeper free movement in his area.

Answer provided by Referee Steve Montanino

Popular school of thought? I think this tought goes the way of the idea that the world is flat, that was also a popular idea at one time.

The 6 seconds should be counted from the moment the keeper gains possession of the ball AND he's had the opportunity to "right himself". By that I mean, allow the goalkeeper enough reasonable time to recover from having made his dive to the ground or whatever. Be sure that he isn't daudling deliberately, if he does start the clock.