Question Number: 23323

Law 15 - Throw In 5/17/2010

RE: Select Under 14

Doug Beauregard of Otsego, MI USA asks...

A throw-in is properly taken. However, on the way towards the field, the ball bounces on the ground OUTSIDE the touchline. After it hits the ground, the ball enters the field of play. Is this a legal throw-in?

I couldn't find WORDING in the USSF Laws (http://www.ussoccer.com/Referees/Laws-of-the-Game.aspx) that states if this is a legal throw or not.

Reminder:
1. The throw-in is proper.
2. The ball hits the ground outside the touchline.
2. The ball enters the field of play to a teammate.

Is this a legal throw-in?
Thank you,
Doug Beauregard

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Doug
The ball cannot touch the ground before entering the field of play on a throw in. As a result the throw in is retaken.

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

If you have only the Laws of the Game as printed by USSF, you will not find the answer. That's because it is in the Interpretations and Guidelines section of the Laws from IFAB/FIFA, which is not included in the USSF edition for cost savings. On page 126 we find, 'If the ball touches the ground before entering the field of play, the throw-in is retaken by the same team from the same position provided that it was taken in line with the correct procedure. If the throw-in is not taken in line with the correct procedure, it is retaken by the opposing team.'

This information can also be found in USSF Advice to Referees, section 15.4.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

This is NOT a proper throw. Re-take

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

See Question: 23413