Question Number: 32541

Mechanics 6/25/2018

RE: rec, select

Garyd of nashua, nh usa asks...

I award a free kick 28 yards from goal (direct scoring distance)-opposite my AR, what is the best position for me the CR?

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Garyd
Positioning is very subjective. These are the key fundamentals of positioning
1. In a position to see the restart and subsequent play
2. Not in the way of players
3. To be able to move to respond to changes in play
4. Positioned to anticipate what play is likely to happen.
5. Has the lead AR in view.
6. Be side on to any contact between players rather than having the view of any contact blocked by one of the players
7. Have as many players as possible in view
So if it is likely to be a shot the important part is to see the defensive wall so that possible handling / encroachment is clearly seen, that no fouls are missed along the offside line and that a flag for offside is clearly seen.
Based on that to the left of the kick, at an angle to see the defensive wall with the AR in view. As play is dynamic a referee needs to adjust as play unfolds.
I always review my games to ask myself on a something that I missed or clearly did not see why did that happen. Experience then tells us what is a good position that meetis as many of the points above. It is not always possible to be in the optimum position due to the way play can unfold.

Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

Well there is a variety of positions if you could possibly take. But in my opinion one of the best positions is one in which you can clearly see the wall in the people in the wall can clearly see you. You also want to make sure that you don't get in the middle of the play if the ball rebounds off the wall. I encourage you to watch the World Cup referees and see which positions they take on these types of free kicks. Usually they favor there left a little but make sure that they are visible to the wall