Question Number: 24804

Law 5 - The Referee 4/11/2011

RE: MLS Professional

Jeff of Boston, MA USA asks...

In watching the MLS game on 4/9/11 between New England and Real Salt Lake, I noticed that every time a team had a free kick in their attacking third, the referee held up play, and then pulled a spray can from a holster on the side of his shorts and sprayed a circle to mark spot of the ball. He then marched off 10 yards and drew a line on the turf where the wall could set up. As seen on TV, the line was barely visible, but it was there. Have any of you heard of this before? If so what does the referee spray and is it temporary or more permanent? I have never seen anything like this before, so is this something that is sanctioned by FIFA?
Thanks

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

It's the new magic spray - it's been used in Latin America for several years. The line goes away after a short time. It will officially be used in trials approved by FIFA starting in July. Perhaps MLS has a waiver to begin the trials earlier.

I'm not sure why the need for it - can't the referee control a restart without it?

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Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Jeff
I would refer you to question 24800 on the same subject.

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Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

I think the referee community will be divided on this. I think it's idiotic

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