Question Number: 28837

Mechanics 10/11/2014

RE: Fan Adult

Colin Walker of oswestry, shropshire engalnd asks...

why do assistant referees always run the line on the left hand side of the goal keeper

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Colin
It is the most common running pattern for referees and for assistant referees. When it changes to right backs it demands more thinking about positioning and also things like flag signals. For instance the signal for a corner is a right hand signal pointing at the corner flag. On the opposite siðe it is a left hand signal which requires time to get used to. Also referees natural reaction when looking for the AR is to the right while the running pattern is left corner flag to left corner flag. Change that and the referee has to concentrate on positioning, running pattern etc which can and does distract from concentrating on his game.
I know when I have been on the line running rights backs it feels awkward with the change of hand when holding the flag making signals and running. That takes one focus away from the real task which is assist the referee on decision making

Answer provided by Referee Jason Wright

Hi Colin,

The easy answer is that it's just how it's normally done. There's no particular reason why it couldn't have been the right hand side, but it's always been the left - so as referees and assistants are used to that position, that's where it normally is. I've been referee and assistant referee in matches where the line has been run on the other side, for various reasons, and it's quite difficult reversing everything you're used to - and it distracts from focussing on the match.

Running on the right hand side instead fulfils the exact same job - but it's easier for all concerned if one side is typical, and that just happened to become the left.

Answer provided by Referee James Sowa

Colin,

To answer simply, they don't. Assistant referees could technically run the opposite 'diagonal' but that would test the referees cognitive flexibility quite a bit. The current system has evolved over several decades and has become standard practice for referees and assistants. That said, I do enjoy running the opposite sides occasionally, get a fresh perspective.