Question Number: 30060

Law 15 - Throw In 1/30/2016

Chris of Liverpool, England asks...

Can a ref award the throw in the other way if they indicate that the player is taking too much time?

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Chris
No that is not possible. The referee could determine though that the throw in was taken from the incorrect location which is a reason to award the throw in to the opponents. Another possibility is that the throw in motion is incorrect which is also a turnover.
If the throw in is taken from the correct location and in the proper manner the only remedy for delaying the restart of play is a caution for same. That foes not change the restart.

BTW this is one of the law changes that I believe would help the game. Use it or lose it is a principle in other sports such as rugby. It would work to help speed up restarts if it was introduced IMO. Until then the only censure is a caution.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Chris
Short answer is NO!
although if the thrower is lolly gagging he can be cautioned shown a yellow card for delaying the restart . The throw in must be performed as the restart demanded by law only if the restart is performed can we judge if it was done correctly!
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Jason Wright

A throw can only be awarded the other way if the referee realises he made an error and is correcting that, or if the throw is incorrectly taken (for example, taken from the wrong part, or the feet are lifted). If the player is simply taking too long he should be cautioned but still take the throw.