Question Number: 32822

Law 15 - The Throw In 10/22/2018

RE: Adult

Garth Turner of Belfast, Northern Ireland asks...

When taking a throw in, is it legal to have both heels touching the touch line, while the rest of the foot is on the playing area?

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

HI Garth ,
yes it is legal as long as part of the foot is on the touchline the other part can be inside the FOP What is not allowed in only 1 foot in contact and the other foot inside. The LOTG say behind or ON the touchline! The ball is almost certainly to be released into play as it is likely already breaking the touchline plane. WE can be tolerant at throw ins as to trifling or doubtful when it comes to mechanics but do not allow throw-ins that gain an advantage if not performed correctly.
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Peter Grove

Hi Garth,
Yes, the foot positioning you describe would be legal. Assuming all other parts of Law 15 are complied with, a throw-in taken with the feet in that position would be perfectly fine. The law clearly says that only a part of each foot needs to be on (or behind) the line - and the heel is a part of the foot.

When a throw-in is being taken with the feet in this position however, the officials do need to carefully observe the mechanics as there is a better chance than normal that if either foot moves or lifts even slightly, an improperly-taken throw could result.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Garth
Some get excited when they see part of a players foot/feet over the touchline at a throw in thinking it is a *foul throw*. As long as part of the feet are touching the line that is all that matters.

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

See Question: 32828