Question Number: 28882

Law 15 - Throw In 10/21/2014

RE: Competitive Adult

Noel Soccorso of Bridgewater, Ma United States asks...

Player attempts a throw in releases the ball but the ball never enters the field of play is he or she allowed a second attempt?

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Noel
Yes the player would be entitled to another attempt provided the first throw was executed in line with Law 15.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Noel,
Possibility if it the mechanics were CORRECTLY followed but it is MOST unusual for a throw in to be taken correctly and not come into contact with the touchline thus entering the FOP. If the throw in is performed incorrectly it is awarded to the opposing team no matter if it does not enter the FOP.
In USA high school no matter how correct the mechanics, if it fails to enter the field it is awarded as a throw in to the other team.
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Jason Wright

Hi Noel,

Under the Laws of the Game, this is a retaken throw in, assuming the throw was otherwise taken correctly.

However, usually in these cases the ball swerves partially over the line and back out again. The moment the slightest sliver of the ball is above the line, it's in play. You can't spot this unless you're right on the line or you have an AR though.