Question Number: 15128

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 4/6/2007

RE: Comp Adult

Bill Kostrub of Murfreesboro, Tennessee USA asks...

When did the rule change that allowed a goalkeeper a limited number of steps carrying the ball? Why the change? Thanks BK

Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

The change was because FIFA felt it was better fit for the spirit of the game. They felt the change would make the game flow better. I believe that they were correct.

Answer provided by Referee Steve Montanino

The IFAB imposed the 4 step restriction on goalkeeper movement in 1982. At the time it was common for goalkeepers to waste lots of time running around with the ball and not putting it into play. The thought was that if you restricted the movement of the keeper, he would have to play it sooner, thus the ball would be "playable" for more of the match.

In 2001 IFAB realized that this change in law did not have the desired effect. Instead, in 2000 they placed a 6 second limit to the amount of time the keeper could hold the ball, and then in 2001 the 4 step restriction was revoked.

In my opinion, this recent change has done more to speed up the game than the 4 step rule ever did. As a keeper, I also like the ability to move about within the penalty area so I can find the best tactical advantage available to me. After all, the last line of defense is the first line of attack.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Bill,
In 1982 the FOUR steps were initiated into play.
I belive it was in 1992 the PASS BACK as it became known
(a teammate deliberately kicks the ball to the keeper) began, with the four steps still in use. The part about not beiong able to receive the ball directly from a throw-in from his own team was added in 1997 again 4 steps still in use .
Then in the year 2000 when the four steps was changed ? takes more than six seconds while controlling the ball with his hands before releasing it from his possession.
The evolution of the laws stems from the practical considerations on their impact of play! The keeper is an essential part in controlling ball distribution and using up time in a tactical manner. FIFA wanted the game to flow with minimal stoppages and NO long delays or boring features. As my colleague suggests both the spirit of the laws and the spirit of the game were required to be on equal footing to allow the game to flow. The laws were adjusted to still incorperate the tactical neccessities but stop uneccessary delays and time wasting. Get the ball back into play I agree I much prefer the 6 seconds as opposed to the 4 steps as better for the game better for the players, better for the spectators and easier for the referee!
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

By 1997 it was apparent that the keeper would hold the ball in his hands as long as he liked and waste time. The six second rule eliminated that. Also, with the 4 step rule, the keeper could oftentimes not reach the outer boundary of the penalty area