Question Number: 25713

Mechanics 11/6/2011

RE: Comp High School

Guillermo Ocampo of Houston, TX USA asks...

What is the proper procedure for ref and AR's to book a goal? You want two officials watching the game while one books the goal. I would say: Far AR to book first, the near AR to book second and the ref to book last...?

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

The USSF Guide to Procedures has the referee to record the goal when in position for the kick off. Immediately after the goal, the referee needs to quickly make eye contact with the lead assistant referee and then watch the players in the goal area.

Subject to the instructions during the pregame, the Lead (near) assistant should also focus on the players after a goal is scored, and should record the goal after the Trail (far) assistant referee.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Guillermo
That is an instruction that is given by the referee in the pre match instructions based on what the CR is comfortable with. I advise the senior assistant on the bench side to mirror my recordings of goals, cautions etc. That is important so that in the event of the senior AR taking over his records are the same. Also I can confirm any doubtful points at half time and at full time with that senior assistant. It is also helpful that the referee should book second when both sets of players are in their own halves. I ask the other assistant to watch the FOP and not concern about recording details. Two officials I believe is sufficient to record.