Question Number: 15972

Law 15 - Throw In 7/8/2007

RE: rec Adult

danny damico of niceville , florida usa asks...

can a player throw the ball in off of an opposing team player's back on purpose and continue to play the ball.

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

Yes, as long as the throw was not reckless or made with excessive force. This is specifically noted in the new Additional Instructions section of the 2007-2008 Laws of the Game, which can be found on FIFA's website. Since this is a brand new document, just coming into effect as of July 1, you may have to search around a bit on the site to find it. Sooner or later FIFA will get around to making it the default document when the "Laws of the Game" link is clicked.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Danny,
Tactically it was viewed as an attempt to avert a second touch or win a corner from a close throw in to the corner. It was argued as USB by many. FIFA have now stated, in black and white, YES but added reckless or excessive as an opinion by the referee. It might make a few people unhappy but what one might consider reckless another referee might not so be careful if you actually attempt it!
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

Yes as long as it is reckless or with excessive force.

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

The pertinent paragraph from the Additional Instructions and Guidelines for Referees in the 2007-8 Laws is:

If a player player, while correctly taking a throw-in, intentionally throws the ball at an opponent in order to play the ball a second time but neither in a careless nor a reckless manner nor using excessive force, the referee shall allow play to continue.

Regards,