Question Number: 30543

Law 14 - Penalty kick 6/26/2016

RE: Intermediate Under 13

Phil of Tarzana, CA United States asks...

This question is a follow up to question 30535

I have a follow-up to Q# 30535. When Law 14 says that the GK must be on the goal line, does this mean that both feet must be on the plane of the goal line? The LOTG doesn't actually specify, although the now defunct Advice to Referees does say so.

I realize, after reading the answers about encroachment, that this probably wouldn't be called, as it's fairly trivial, but I'd like to know the requirement.

Thanks again,

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

Phil, Law 14 only says that the goalkeeper must 'remain' on the line. We know the keeper can move back and forth, a change that was put into the Laws several years ago. Unless the keeper is dragging his feet as he moves from side to side, one or both of feet will come off the line at some point. So the keeper is in compliance if he remains in the plane of the goal line. And as you say, any movement just minutely off the line should be considered trifling and not be punished. A nice theoretical question to be considered, but not to be taken seriously in a game.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Phil
The accepted wisdom is that both feet must be on the line and the former ATR had it correct. Anyway it is highly unlikely for the goalkeeper to stand with one foot off the line and the other on. That places him in a poor body position and one that does not allow great mobility.