Question Number: 20259

Mechanics 10/14/2008

RE: Adult

Melvin Hagerman of Colorado Springs, Colorado U.S.A. asks...

A question about center-referee positioning:
Watching some old EPL matches (1993/4 and 1994/5 matches), my attention was drawn to the CR's positioning on a number of dead-ball situations--namely, that the CR was positioned on the goal line, to the opposite side of the goal from the AR/linesman, roughly near the point where the six-yard box connects to the goal line. I remember seeing this a lot while watching matches even earlier, and even a soccer book showed an example of CR positioning with a CR on the goal line at a corner kick.

I don't see this at all anymore; the CR now stands outside the penalty area on almost all dead-ball situations (i.e. corner kicks and free kicks close to goal).

Given the recent problems of goal/no-goal calls in a number of situations (even earlier this year in the Championship, for example), why DOESN'T the CR position him/herself on the goal line as described above? Was this a change in refereeing philosophy several years ago--written or customary--that the CR now stands outside of the 18-yard box instead of on the goal line?

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Referee positioning and mechanics is an often analyzed and discussed aspect of the game .We often say be where you can see the play the best . We also suggest that you not always be in the exact same position on dead ball situations. In anticipating where PLAY might go it was decided by those who teach such things that a referee close to the goal line is in fact more often out of position for a ball reversed back the other way then a goal line position helps clarify an important situation.

I was ridiculed in class, how is that for support of colleagues, for suggesting the goal line position is in fact MORE useful at certain times like an attacking throw in to the near post. I simply look at the quality work of those who offer opinions and found it is not hard to justify one's position if it turns out well. ;o) There are elitist referees who feel superior given their role in politics as opposed to on field performances.

The area of vulnerability is lessened mathematically by the position of standing outside the quadrant of the 18 yard penalty area arc. Thus so it is taught at the elite level where fleet of foot may not be the strongest asset of the referee.
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

The primary goal in referee positioning is to be able to see as much as possible. A position on the goal line for a corner kick does give the ref a lot of viewing area, although the net is between him and his AR on the far corner.

A secondary goal should be to be in a position where it is likely you will be needed next. That's why it's not important to stay near the 18 to watch the keeper punt the ball, but more important to be moving toward midfield where the punt will land. Being on the goal line may put the ref out of position for a reversal of play after the corner kick.

And as Ref Dawson mentions, you gotta keep'm guessing. Don't let players predict where you will be, or they will know how to hide their nefarious deeds from you.