Question Number: 25524

Law 13 - Free Kicks 9/30/2011

RE: Intermediate Under 12

Phil of Tarzana, CA United States asks...

This question is a follow up to question 25349

Is there a way for the referee to intervene without taking away the quick free kick from the team that was fouled?

I remember reading several responses on similar questions where it's been said that too many defenders think they have a right to set up a wall & that they wait until the referee tells them to move back.

What is the best way for a referee to assure that players move back quickly, without taking away the ability to have a free kick?

Thanks in advance,

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

The ref can remind* them of the requirement - '10 yards, guys!' But if it goes any farther than this, such as moving to where the 10-yard mark is or telling them to step back X steps, the kick has to be made ceremonial. Pick a time when the attackers don't seem to be in a hurry to take the kick and enforce the distance - and make it known that you do not see 6 yards as an acceptable distance.

* - This reminder is no more than the kind of preventative talking we do to teams in other situations - 'Arms down', 'Knock it off', 'No fouls', etc.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Phil
On the 1st free kick awarded the referee should note the action of the defending team. Usually forwards have been 'told' to position themselves in front of the ball. to prevent the QFK.
There are a few options here
1. Should the team go with a genuine QFK and the kick has been prevented then it is a caution for the offender who prevents this.
2. If the QFK is not taken then the referee holds up play and speaks to the player advising him that if he attempts to stop a QFK again that it will result in a caution. The referee needs to ensure that every player has got the message that this actionwill not be tolerated. Next one is a caution.