Question Number: 20025

Law 4 - Players Equipment 9/21/2008

RE: competive High School

Warren of Nashville, Tn USA asks...

This question is a follow up to question 19994

True that common sense would dictate that a player not involved in the play could lose a shinguard or shoe and not be in danger of injury; play continues unless the player makes no effort to correct the situation
But it would seem to me common sense that a player minus shoe or shinguard and with the ball - or for that matter without the ball, say a defender - and facing the possibility of a serious challenge or tackle is in a dangerous situation and play should stop.
The suggested rule change would only reflect reality. I don't believe suggesting that is out of line.
As for my high horse, I've fallen off of it so many times I don't remember what it looks like.
All the best,
Warren

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

Laws of the Game, page 63: 'If a player loses his footwear accidentally and immediately plays the ball and/or scores a goal, there is no infringement and the goal is awarded because he lost his footwear by accident.'

This concept should carry over to other equipment, and to other players. The referee decides what accidentally and immediately mean.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

If you are suggesting that FIFA enact a rule that says whenever a piece of equipment accidently comes off that player must cease to take part in the game, I'm against it. I'll stick with common sense.

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

See Question: 20044