Question Number: 23677

Law 13 - Free Kicks 7/16/2010

RE: L6 - first year competitive Under 10

Jason Thompson of Orleans, Ontario Canada asks...

In 'mini' soccer (7 V 7) when the defending team is awarded a free kick in their own area where should the ball be placed for the free kick? A couple of nights ago my keeper was fouled on our goal line and subsequently awarded a free kick where by the referee had him take the kick at the spot of the foul (thus putting our keeper in his own net to take the free kick). I understand Law 13 as it relates to full pitch football but I am curious and looking for a ruling on this issue. It is my belief that because there is no goal area and just a penalty area in the mini levels that the free kick would take place anywhere inside the area.

Please advise

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Jason
This should be covered by a local competition rule. If the offence happened on a regular field of play the goalkeeper would be allowed to take the free kick anywhere inside the goal area.
In the absence of a local rule and a goal area Law 18 should apply and the free kick should be taken inside the goalkeeper's area or at worse close to the location of the foul that does not require the GK going back into the net.

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

The short-sided games always have rule modifications, especially on matters involving the restarts for particular offenses and when and where they can occur. You will have to check with the organizing authority to find out exactly what is and is not allowed.

If this was not the correct procedure, then be sure to communicate this to the referee assignor or league personnel so they can take remedial action.