Question Number: 17957

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 11/19/2007

RE: Level 8 - Rec thru Competitive Under 19

Sam Samtani of Yorba Linda, CA U.S.A. asks...

Player on the ground playing the ball:

What is the rule on a player who is on the ground (either having attempted a sliding tackle or having fallen to the ground) attempting to kick at the ball, or actually playing the ball?

Thanks
Sam

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

There is no "Rule" regarding playing the ball on the ground, it is a myth.

Regards,

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

Some U-little recreational leagues have provisions against playing while on the ground, or prohibiting slide tackles. What is learned in U8 and U10 is hard to unlearn at later ages and becomes a Myth of the Game. When that U15 coach yells out, "He can't play it on the ground!" I wonder just what he has managed to learn in the last 5 or 7 years.

Playing In A Dangerous Manner (PIADM) is an indirect free kick offense found in Law 12. If the player on the ground created no danger and did not disadvantage an opponent by that danger, there is no call to be made.

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

It is not against the Laws of the Game to play the ball while on the ground. It is perfectly legal and okay. The problem arises when a player is covering the ball with his body in such a manner that no one else can play it without kicking him. This happens a lot at the younger ages, and the better referees are quick to call PIADM and restart with an indirect free kick for the other team. Local rules may alter this - but there is really no need - the Laws of the Game are quite sufficient.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

Sam, as a Grade 8 referee you should know there is no offence known as "playing the ball on the ground". What MAY occur is playing in a dangerous manner. Review what Advice To Referees has to say on this. Their coverage is excellent