Question Number: 26662

Law 13 - Free Kicks 8/21/2012

RE: Competitive Under 18

Harris of Toronto, Ontario Canada asks...

During free kicks, sometimes there tends to be a lot of interference from an attacking player with the wall i.e. leaning against them, applying shoulder pressure on them, holding their hand out in front of them to prevent them from moving, forcing their elbow into their sides etc.

How do you recommend dealing with this and recognise what is permissible and what isn't?

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

This also happens at corner kicks.

I start with a sharp, 'Hey, knock it off!' If that doesn't work, you hold up the restart and directly and obviously talk to the players.

If they are so obtuse to not take either of your hits, a caution will surely get their attention.

In any event, since the actions took place during a stoppage, the restart remains the same.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Harris
Do not allow any mis behaviour at a restart. Take control of the situation and do not allow the kick to be taken. That will involve warning players about their actions. The referee needs to be firm so that it does not escalate into something more serious such as violent conduct. If need be the referee can & should caution the offenders.
If the behaviour persists then when the kick is taken penalise the holding or pushing offence with a direct free kick. That can put an end to the nonsense.