Question Number: 32143

Law 6 - The Other Match Oficials 1/6/2018

RE: Rec Adult

Russell of Sydney, Australia asks...

This question is a follow up to question 32139

Unlike some of the panel, I'd be comfortable with the fact that my AR had noticed the player returning to the FOP without permission, after all, is that not part the job of all match officials.

Just like all of the panel, I'd wave it off as incidental, and the spirit of the game overrules the 'gotcha' technical aspect.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Russell
There are many times when a referee does not need 'intervention' by an AR for doubtful or dubious incidents. Being aware is one thing actually bringing up a questionable incident is another. An AR will have to raise a flag or shout into the referee which will alert the conceding team to 'something' untoward which then may have to be dealt with when really perhaps no one really is bothered or concerned. It probably could go totally unnoticed or of no concern.
In the scheme of things most referees only want unquestionable obvious offences or misconduct brought to their attention such as a player punching an opponent unseen by the referee, an extra player on the FOP etc.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

HI Russell
while good communication and observational skills are certainly important the ARs are there to assist the CR in managing the match not create spectacles or wildfires that could potentially spread out of control. Quiet, off the record conversations, exchanging important crucial information during match time not wasting time on something that had no effect on play which in the post game or at halftime you might mention as a matter of record. Indicating your observational skills and your understanding of why the flag or making a big deal of it was unnecessary could endear you to the CR rather than make a problem out of nothing..
Cheers