Question Number: 27814

Law 7 - Match Duration 9/25/2013

RE: Varsity High School

Becki of Minnetrista, Mn USA asks...

If they have a free kick and kick the ball before the time runs out but runs out while ball is in the air and nobody touches it and it goes in goal is that considered a goal?

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi becki
Once time expires no further play is allowed. It makes no difference if the ball is in the air or not.
The wise referee will wait the few seconds to see the outcome of the flight of the ball before ending the game. However if the whistle is blown before the ball crosses the goal line no goal can be awarded.

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Answer provided by Referee Jason Wright

Hi Becki,

Unlike Futsal, when time is finished - it's finished. If the whistle is blown when the ball is in midair, then the game's over.

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Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

As this is high school, you are probably working with a stadium clock. NFHS rules provide that when the clock runs out, the half is over - it doesn't matter what is going on at the time. And unlike other HS sports rules, we don't get to wait to see if a ball in the air goes in the goal or not.

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