Question Number: 31266

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 2/16/2017

RE: Rec Adult

Russell of Sydney, Australia asks...

DFK v a natural coming together.

In the UCL match between Arsenal v Robert Lewandowski (also know as Bayern Munich), the challenge for the ball that lead to a foul that was awarded to Arsenal resulting in a penalty, is one that I often see in general outfield play.

I recall numerous times calling 'play on' when this happens, as (at least in my particular instances) I feel it can be simply a case of bad luck that one player is kicked by another as part of a natural follow through.

Sometimes it is a case of 'well if you are prepared to put your foot there...'

When these frequently, infrequent moments happen, I do evaluate if there is any deliberate follow through or positioning from a player (with apparent intent to make contact), which can be solid grounds for a DFK - and potential caution subject to execution.

I must say, I'm inclined to think this instance was more about the Arsenal player putting his foot in the firing line, and a bit surprised the foul was awarded.

Maybe it is a 'at this level, with so many eyes watching' it gets pulled up, but I still feel it a little hard luck on Bayern.

BTW, (the fact that Sanchez took 823 attempts before eventually scoring - sums up the Gunners ability).

fast forward to the 2:45 min mark
http://www.fullmatchesandshows.com/2017/02/15/bayern-munich-vs-arsenal-highlights/2:24

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Russell
What you refer to is a stonewall foul either a penalty kick or a free to the defending team. It is certainly not play on.
In this case the referee opined that Lewandowski kicked the Arsenal player which is a penal foul. If the referee opined that the Arsenal player through his action such as studs up etc was the guilty party then it is a free out to Bayern Munich
When I saw this in real time live I said 100% correct decision. The Arsenal player played the ball fairly and he was kicked after he played the ball. On review I did not see any action by the Arsenal player that he was guilty of a foul.
As you know a kicks or attempts to kick an opponent foul happens when the action is done in a manner considered by the referee to be careless, reckless or using excessive force. Lewandowski s action was at least careless when he kicked his opponent. Referee Mazic did not consider it to be reckless hence no card was produced.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

HI Russell.
careless foul, bit too complacent, certainly no malice no theatrics, thus no card. Most definitely a foul, certainly not play on !
Cheers

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

See Question: 31281