Question Number: 18980

Law 15 - Throw In 5/4/2008

Simon of San Francisco, Ca US asks...

Regarding Rule 15 (Throw In's)
Can either foot be on the line or in front of the line when throwing in the ball ?
I have always been under the impression that both feet must be behind the line.
At the very least, NO part of either foot in front of the line.
Please clarify.
Thanks.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Absolutely true Simon,
Your impression was a myth, born in the journals of unnecessary retakes. As long as SOME part of both feet remains in contact with some part of the touchline the other portions of the feet could stick over into the field.
A throw in is a simple method to restart play and has a few basic principles where we allow some deviation as trifling. The most common is the exact spot where the ball went into touch is supposed to be where the throw in originates from but we say within a yard is permitted yet often it is granted more leeway in a defending area then in an attacking area.
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

You would be incorrect. The requirement is both feet must be in contact with or behind the line. Any part of the foot touching any part of the line is ok so even if both heels are touching the line with the rest of each foot on the field of play, this is allowed.

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

Law 15 says the thrower "has part of each foot either on the touch line or on the ground outside the touch line." The other part of the foot may extend beyond the line onto the green part of the field.