Question Number: 20854

Law 15 - Throw In 2/15/2009

RE: Under 17

Dave of Des Moines, IA US asks...

Referring to the unfortunate video at:

http://www.ebaumsworld.com/video/watch/1072062/

Would you yellow card the recipient of the throw-in for not allowing enough distance?
Or is the thrower at fault for striking the defender?

Perhaps the ref could have told him to give two meters before the throw took place. At least warn him the 2nd time!!

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

Not in that apparent High School game I wouldn't caution him. First, because I'm not NFHS certified. But second, because I understand NFHS has not yet adopted the 2-yard/meter distance rule for throw-ins.

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

Because this is a high school match the criteria is different because the 13 folks who think up their rules haven't noticed the 2 yard requirement in the Laws of the Game. All they say about an opponent is she shall neither interfere with nor in any way impede the actions of the thrower while the throw-in is being taken.

Right. The thrower delivers the ball and it strikes an opponent. Looking further into High School Rules we find:

'A player shall not spit, kick, strike, attempt to kick, or strike or jump at an opponent.' Seventeen words that's it. Notice anything about careless, reckless or excessively forceful? It's not there either, fancy that... So we don't have the option of disciplining the thrower because she was reckless or excessively forceful.

What to do? Pick up the pieces and refit them where applicable and get on with play. Gotta love those unscrupulous modifiers of the Laws of the Game.

Regards,

Answer provided by Referee Steve Montanino

Do Over!