Question Number: 18667

Law 9 - The Ball in and out of Play 4/1/2008

RE: Competitive Under 14

Jay of Santa Cruz, CA USA asks...

If the ball flies over the corner flag and out, how do we call it? A throw in? A corner kick/goal kick? Similarly, if the keeper punches the ball up and over the center of the goal, which side do the attackers take the corner kick?

Thanks

Answer provided by Referee Steve Montanino

Part A = We simply make a decision, did the ball cross the goal line or the touchline. If I decide that it was absolutely equal... I'll decide that it went out over the touchline, as a corner kick causes more problems for game management than a throw in, typically. Of course then for that reason I would be consistent and give a throw-in no matter who it hit off of last. Besides, ordering a goal kick usually means I have to run RIGHT now, a throw-in keeps me closer. Normally, though this never happens and you just make a decision based on what you've seen.

Part B= The corner the ball is moving toward. If neither, I would put it on the side nearest the AR - that gives our team more control over the players by having a greater presence.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

We look at the AR on that side for help and if there's none forthcoming we decided what the restart is and go from there. In my many years of refereeing, I have never had a ball go directly over the corner flag. I agree with Ref Montanino. If the ball doesn't go towards one goal or another I'd probably choose the corner closest me but, really, what difference could it make?

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

We make a decision and earn our match fee... With regard to the ball crossing the close to the center of the goal line, it depends!

There are two schools of thought, the Laws of the Game say the nearest corner flagpost. Advice to Referees says the corner flagpost nearest the ball. Note neither mentions where the ball crosses the goal line. This establishes a choice if you want to take it. Imagine a player who has been griping at every decision you take, grumbling at every advantage, complaining about throw-ins at the halfway line and any other thing that grates on your nerves. If he is going to get the ball close to the right flagpost it's always kicked from the other side. What goes around comes around... Yup I'm sometimes vindictive.

Regards,

Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

The referee decides. Make a decision, stick to it, and show confidence. Chances are no one will argue with you then.