Question Number: 21299

League Specific 5/7/2009

RE: GHSA- A/AA state playoffs High School

Jason Muller of Thomasville, Ga US asks...

This question is a follow up to question 20993

Last night in our Semi final game late in the first half a ball was played into the box that was headed toward the goal. The ball appeared to cross the goal line but while still in the air was bycicle kiked backwards out of the goal, hit the crossbar and went straight down and was caught by the keeper. The Score was tied 1-1 with less than 5 minutes remaining in the first half. The goal wasn't counted for us. There appears to be a video from WCTV a TV station based in Tallahasse that has sufficent evidence showing the ball did cross the line. If so is there any way the goal can be protested and the game could continue from that point or whatever the rules state? We ended up losing the game 2-1

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

No, you can't protest based on the video. The referees' (I presume there were ARs) decision was made based on what they saw at the time. The only valid reason for a protest is a misapplication of the Laws (NFHS: Rules). The referee's decision on facts of play, including whether or not a goal has been scored, is final.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Unfortunately video review in soccer is not grounds for an opinion on a fact of play to be over ruled. The referee made a decision even if incorrect, it was NOT a miss-application of law, he simply did not recognize the ball had completely crossed the goal line under the crossbar and between the posts because he did not see it! A referee with integrity sees what he sees even if he sees it wrong! No referee can award a GOAL if he is uncertain! A referee must KNOW for a fact that the ball DID cross, not that it might have! Sucks but that is why we harp so much on ARs, proper position and focus. It is important to get these decisions right and when if we fail despite our best efforts I can live with that. However if we fail because we are sloppy, tired, inefficient or do not care then the video is great to highlight these facts to point out to those who can do something about the calibre of the officials with training, mentoring and accountability
Cheers