Question Number: 31320

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 3/7/2017

Zluvka of Liberec, Czech Republic Czech Republic asks...

Hi,
I have video about goalkeepers red card handballs outside the box.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52YhAcSK8As

Are all of these situations really obvious goal-scoring opportunities? I think that is disputed. (f.e. No. 9, maybe others)

What do you think about all ten situations and why? (except Kahn's handball in opponents box) Thank you!

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Zluvka
I would have little difficulty with any of the Red cards in the videos with the possible exception of No 9, No 6 and No 5
In those three it can be argued that without the handling there was questionable possibility of a goal scoring opportunity being denied as there is uncertainty that the attackers would subsequently gain control of the ball. It requires a what happened next situation to be determined without the foul. It can also be argued that there was an obvious goal scoring opportunity which is in the opinion of the referee. The handlings are without doubt unsporting and referees at the Pro level will have less tolerance levels for such actions. That is a judgement opinion.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Zluva,
There was no reason to go direct red just because it was the keeper but if the referee felt the opportunity was in fact denied as a judgment it can not be undone no matter we might disagree!

I thought at least one red card was for VC after he backed into the penalty area as there was no OBVIOUS scoring threat initially just that he was outside the area. There is no doubt that going to the red sleight ride is an almost conditioned reflex rather than a true review of the circumstances.

The blatant ones are a no brainer but there were several that in my opinion could have fared with a simple caution for USB or a tactical foul.

The one where there was PIADM with the opponent falling over the keeper I suppose the ball did contact he arm as he tried to cover it but when the striker fell on top of the keeper hard to know when the whistle sounded.

As I always say Your Match Your Decision Your Reputation!

Cheers