Question Number: 19983

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 9/18/2008

RE: Competive High School

John of River Grove, IL USA asks...

I had a couple of questions regarding calls made at the HS level. All of these plays were separate US high school boys games with a 2-man system (which I personally dislike). Some information was seen at the game, some information was obtained by other parents/players at a later date. I am not sure if the rulings on the field are correct.

1. In a totally one-sided game (score 7-0 at half) the winning team goalie sits down on his line, or in some cases lies down with his head on his elbow. If a ball does come his way, he stands up and kicks the ball up the field, and then resumes his prone position. No call is made, correct call? By the way, the coach ended up pulling the goalie later in the second half, gave him a public tongue lashing, and (it was discovered later) sat him for a game. Good to the coach, but correct by the referee?

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Good for the coach!
I tend to think this is only an issue that a referee COULD bring to the attention of the coach if the coach himself is not acting reasonablely to correct his keeper's attitude.

Being bored is unfortunately a fact of play when one team dominates. The keeper could join active play upfield and participate in active play outside his area.

As a coach I either reduce my number of players on the field or switch the keeper out when we are in a dominating ring of fire position

As a referee I have suggested to the coach while I think it disrespectful for the keeper to do as he does that if he wishes to be substutitued now might be a good time before I felt a caution for USB was in order to correct it.
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

In a game played under the Laws of the Game, the goalkeeper would be cautioned for unsporting behavior. In a game played under NFHS rules, he might well be disqualified (red card) for taunting.

Good for the coach in chastizing this terribly unsporting action. In effect the keeper is saying to the opposition, 'You lot are so sorry at this game, I don't even have to try to defend against you.'