Question Number: 17317

Law 17 - Corner Kick 10/14/2007

RE: Competive

Dan Ornelas of San Jose, CA USA asks...

This question is a two-part question.

A team was taking a corner and toe tapped the ball. Not neccesarily moving the ball. The other player standing started to dribble the ball. I call for a re-start because the ball didn't necessary move or rotate. Of course, coach argued. That toe taps we acceptable start of plays. I have spoken to many referees and though there are difference of interpreations, they all seem to agree the ball needs to be passed with the foot and rotate for the ball to be in play.

What is the correct rule for ball restart and rotation? i.e. Corner Kicks, IDFK.

Thanks

Dan

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Dan,
as a USSF referee look to your ATR it gives very clear direction on the practical nature of putting the ball in play. It amazes me to no end that the USSF puts out this advice for all their referees yet why debate anything with USSF colleagues until you can all look to the book to see what direction is already in place?

You can **KICK** a ball with any part of the foot, the key points are the ball must discernably move from a point here to a point there not tremble or quiver in place from a step on or a gentle tap. The foot must not remain in contact with the ball as in a sole role or a push.

The restart for the corner requires a kick. In your opinion, you did not see one. You saw the kicker actually touch the ball a second time hence it is an indfk for the opposition likely just outside the corner arc.

We can on some occasions understand the opposition as well as the team kicking where both are satisfied the ball was kicked even if it looked suspiciously not so. The defenders are breaking in to rush and the attackers raise no concern when the ball smacks off an opponent at 5 yards away. Hence why quibble but if the referee sets a bar only so high once it must follow that bar is raised no higher next time. Your Match, Your Decision, Your Reputation!
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

A tap is not a kicking motion. The ball was not in play, thus the dribbler took a second touch. Indirect free kick for the defense. Coaches argue only if you let them. They may ask, you may reply if you choose. The decisions are yours and yours alone (with the caveat that you may accept the advice of your ARs).

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

See Question: 17346