Question Number: 30078

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 2/3/2016

RE: Competitive Adult

Lance Hayward of Nottinam, UK asks...

Can an opposing outfield player stand next to a goalkeeper when he is attempting to kick the ball out of his hands?

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Lance
Nothing wrong with that provided the player does NOTHING to interfere with the goalkeeper and the release of the ball. Sometimes players will stand close to the goalkeeper to ensure the ball is not thrown down to the ground for a ground kick perhaps after a short dribble. However once the opponent moves or positions himself to interfere then the referee will pay close attention to this and should there be interference it is an IDFK. In some instances the referee may caution if the interference is dangerous or that it is breaking up a counter attack etc.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Lance,
If you are simply close and not interfering no real issue. However, if you move to get close or track the keeper movements you are on the referee's radar and likely to be found guilty should the release not go well.

Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

That's part of the reason the keeper gets 6 seconds to hold onto the ball, so she can move around other players. But if the opponent keeps moving into the way, that's interfering with the release of the ball. An indirect free kick offense at the least; many referees also include a caution for unsporting behavior, depending on how egregious it is.