Question Number: 29662

Law 16 - Goal Kick 9/4/2015

RE: Select Under 14

Tom of Dana Point, CA US asks...

I understand that the ball is not in play on a goal kick unless and until it clears the penalty area, so that if an attacker or defender touches it inside the PA, the goal kick is retaken. What about the scenario when the player who took the kick is the one to touch the ball that hasn't cleared the PA? Still a re-kick or is it an IDFK? I am thinking of a scenario where a young girl (the keeper) mis-hit the goal kick and it just moved a few yards. She went to retrieve it to re-kick. The opposing coach was yelling for an IDFK.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Tom
It is still a retake as the ball is not in play until the ball exits the penalty area. The double touch infraction only applies when the ball is in play.

As regards your scenario the correct decision was a retake as the ball was never in play. The coach needs to learn the Laws plus it is not a good example for young players of good sporting behaviour.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Tom,
just to clarify ANY defending free kick indfk, dfk or goal kick coming out of the PA must CLEAR the penalty area to be in play. This double touch would be a retake and as it is likely just an accident that is all that is required. As for the yelling coach they do so enjoy the sound of their own voices do they not? lol
Cheers

The following questions were asked as a follow up to the above question...

See Question: 29787