Question Number: 14747

Law 9 - The Ball in and out of Play 1/27/2007

RE: Rec Under 8

Mike Peterson of Tallahassee, fl USA asks...

If a goalie has possession of the ball and steps over the end line, however, the ball never leaves the field of play, is this considered a corner kick? Example, in our game our goalie stopped a ball, one foot was on the end line and one was out, the ball never crossed the line. I asked for clarification of the call and he said that it was the position of the feet. Having played soccer as a kid in Europe, I felt that this was incorrect. I didn't argue just kept playing. Has the rule changed at all?

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Mike,
No, the law has not changed!
it is the position of the ball with respect to boundrylines and only the ball that determines if the ball is in or out. You are 100% spot on mate and kudoes for not arguing the point with the referee on the field. I d0 hope that you mentioned this to the league authorities though so the proper information could be made available to the referee through the back channels. In that way we fix a problem with no finger of blame poking into the fun of the match!
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

Hi Mike. I'm glad you didn't argue the call but you were correct. Doesn't matter at all where the feet or hands are. When considering whether or not the ball has gone out of play, the ONLY thing that matters is where the BALL is. In accordance with Law 9, the whole of the ball must cross the whole of the touchline or goal line to be out of play. Keep in mind that at U8, you are probably dealing with very inexperienced Grade 9 referees who are, unfortunately, not well-versed in Law. I'd bring this to the attention of the League authorities to stop such misinformation being dispersed. Again, you did well not arguing. At this level, we try to just make it safe and fun for the kids. Well done!!

Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

Nope. It only matters where ball is. Not keepers feet.