Question Number: 24091

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 10/5/2010

RE: Rec Under 13

DougB of Irvine, Ca USA asks...

This question is a follow up to question 24073

Question on deception, I think it would be fine, and doesn't go against any of the Laws.

Set-up:
Free kick. One attacker about one or two steps from the ball, behind it and to the right, just lounging around.

Another attacker stepping back, two, three, four, then five steps, preparing to run and kick the ball.

Either as he's backing up, or perhaps even just as he begins his run, the closer player steps in and kicks the ball.

I imagine this would have to be planned and rehearsed a little bit, like the 'fake corner kick' we hear about often. But if there is no verbal deception from the coach, it would be fine, right?

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

That is pretty much the technique used for most indirect free kicks that are in a dangerous scoring position. Maybe your player who takes the first touch is being a little more secretive than others. But it's a matter of degree, not a unique tactic.

There is nothing wrong with the technique. But you will also find that the other team begins to expect it.

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

If you are asking if it is a legal tactic, the answer is yes, as long as there is no verbal distraction from the players OR the coach. Actions to feint or deceive the opponents at free kicks are part of the game, but as with anything, there are limits.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Doug
Nothing wrong as described here. However you do not mention the length of time between the ball being 'put into play' and the subsequent shot or the type of free kick. If for instance there was a significant delay between both on an IDFK, with a verbal suggestion that the ball was in fact not in play then that IMO would be unfair and the referee needs to deal with it using the Laws.
If it was a direct free kick and the distance of the 1st kick was minimal, the ball had come to rest again and there was a direct shot on goal I doubt the opponents would have any complaint about that. However if the player dribbled off with the ball then that needs to be deal with.
At the highest level I have seen the retake as the most favoured option.