Question Number: 32

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct

RE: Any

Paul Preolo of Orangevale, CA USA asks...

IS the use of the word careless in Law 12 the same as accidental.

Answer provided by Referee glenn

I'm not so sure I want to define one word by using another, but if in the opinion of the referee(ITOOTR)it was accidental but the mechanics of the foul were there, then yes it could be careless. ..Its important for the ref to understand what age group he is dealing with and even sometimes the player he is dealing with. ..I will admit to you that at the local level I am pretty familiar with individuals who commit certain acts on the field...Hope this helped.

Answer provided by Referee Stacy Kalstrom

Careless is defined as inattentive or negligent...Accidental is defined as occuring unexpectedly and unintentionally...The two words should not be exchanged for one another...A trip is a trip even if it is accidental (players usually will say "I didn't mean to ref", and I reply, I'm sure you didn't but it is still a foul). I often use the word careless to determine whether I will show a yellow card to the offending player. If a player carelessly or recklessly fouls an opponent, he may need to be "cautioned" in order to let him and others know that this type of play is not encouraged. To continue down this road, if a player uses excessive force he will certainally get a caution and will probably be sent off...Good Question. Hope this helps.

Answer provided by Referee MrRef

5 October 2006 - US Soccer definitions:

?Careless? indicates that the player has not exercised due caution in making his play.

?Reckless? means that the player has made unnatural movements designed to intimidate an opponent or to gain an unfair advantage.

?Involving excessive force? means that the player has far exceeded the use of force necessary to make a fair play for the ball and has placed his opponent in considerable danger of bodily harm.

Reckless carries with it a caution and excessive force includes a sending-off.

Accidental IS NOT foul play.

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

See Question: 27354