Question Number: 26882

Law 16 - Goal Kick 10/4/2012

jim caprood of queensbury, ny usa asks...

This question is a follow up to question 26362

what if the goalkeeper kicks the ball and the defender steps into the box to intentionally play the ball before it has an oppurtunity to leave the box?

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

Are we talking about a goal kick here? If so, the kick must be retaken, because the ball was not put into play. The ball is not in play until it exits the penalty area on goal kicks and free kicks.

If the referee thought that the defender was deliberately wasting time by intercepting the ball before it left the penalty area, she could be cautioned for delaying the restart.

Answer provided by Referee Jason Wright

I assume we're talking about a goal kick or defensive free kick in the penalty area.

If so, then it's a retake. I would only start to consider cautioning the player if it's been happening repeatedly, if it's a deliberate timewasting tactic or if it's for tactical reasons to prevent an attacker from getting the ball. Even then, I don't think I've ever seen a caution in this situation, but it could happen.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Jim
On any kicked restart inside the penalty area including a goal kick the ball is not in play until it leaves the penalty area. In this case the kick is retaken.
If the referee is of the opinion that the deliberate action was to delay the restart the player can be cautioned for delaying the restart.