Question Number: 2634

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 10/29/2001

RE: youth player

ivan of L A, CA USA asks...

why are players allowed to, without touching and clearly being in possession of the ball, shepherd the ball out of play without being called for obstruction?

Answer provided by Referee hoare 10/29/2001

This is a good question as it causes many a debate.It is an area that does at not seem right at first sight. However providing that the player who is "SHEPHERDING" the ball out of play, is within playing distance of the ball then he is not considered to be obstructing an opponent. If however the player is not within playing distance of the ball, then he would be considered to be playing the man and that would be deemed deliberate obstruction.

Answer provided by Referee Dawson 10/29/2001

HI Ivan, ..You somewhat answered your own question when you said "clearly being in posession of the ball" As my colleague has stated playing distance is the key. This is somewhat relative as to how near or far away a player can be from the ball. In my opinion about two steps away at the speed necessary to reach the ball. ..In my opinion if a player reverses direction with arms spread while SHEPHERDING the ball out of play this is clearly obstruction actually pushing and worthy of a foul against the shepherder. Cheers