Question Number: 15663

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 5/31/2007

RE: rec Under 11

todd goforth of reno, nv usa asks...

If a goalkeeper is laying on the ground, inside of the box, and has both hands on the ball (the ball is also touching the ground), is it legal for an opposing player to kick the ball? In this case the opposing player kicked the ball into the net and a goal was awarded.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Todd,
if during active play a keeper has his arm/hand on the ball inside his penalty area that ball is UNPLAYABLE by an opponent. An opponent must make a reasonable effort to stop or pull out of any challange. It is possible for a ball, hand and foot to arrive at the same time making the choice difficult. It is also possible for a ball to touch then roll a bit away from the arm rendering the ball playable.
If the refere allowed the goal he was hopefully under the opinion that th ball was NOT in the keeper's possession. If he missed the possession tough luck. If he saw it but did not recognize it then he needs to check in to the nearest recertification referee program!
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Steve Montanino

I'll assume for the sake of this answer that the goalkeeper had clear possession of the ball at the time the opponent kicked it. In that case then the answer to your questions is....

No, it is not legal. A goal should not be given and a foul should be called against the attacking side.