Question Number: 18053

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 12/3/2007

RE: Rec/Select Adult

Les Sicherman of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Canada asks...

As a referee,one of the more difficult calls to make is the handball; whether it be intentional or unintentional---is difficult enough. To simply observe the handball from a good vantage point can be a challenge, and without the assistance of an AR, even more so.
A player may be in such a position as to shield direct observation of a handball. Does the ref have the option in calling a handball if he relies on other evidence such as the ball deflects in an un-natural manner with the hands being in a position for such deduction? Or, must we only rely on direct observable evidence? Les

Answer provided by Referee Steve Montanino

The referee can ONLY rely on what he and his assistants see. It is impossible for the referee to read players minds so it is the player's actions that are the key element here.

Sometimes there will be many signs that point to a certain conclusion, and the lucky referee might get away with using that information in making a decision, but they take a great risk in calling something they aren't sure they've personally seen, because it may not have happenend.

So you need to figure out a way to actually SEE it happen, find a better way to position yourself and get the best angle to see play.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

Sounds to me as if you have a fundamental problem when considering whether or not a player deliberately handled the ball. I disagree with your contention that it is a very difficult decision. I'd agree that MOST referees get it wrong but not because the decision itself is difficult if concept. Law 12 was not written to punish players from protecting themselves. Whenever you see hand and ball meet you only have to ask was it avoidable and was it a reflexive effort to protect the player. This changes as the level of skill becomes higher. The more skilled the player is, the more likely he may be able to avoid handling a ball. If you decide the contact was NOT avoidable, then you ask yourself whether the ball was redirected. If not, you have no infraction. I'll admit it takes a certain amount of testicular fortitude to not call it an attraction when a 12 year old player throws up his hand to keep from getting his face torn off, but so it goes. I believe one of my fellow panelists rightly stated if you hold your whistle, you'll be correct 90% of the time

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

Les read and heed what my colleagues offer. I will offer this, you use the word "handball" four times in your question. The Law is worded "Handles the ball deliberately[except for the goalkeeper inside his own penalty area]". There is significant difference between what you ask and what the Law states is foul play. Perhaps that is the problem you face.

Given the basis for your decision making being flawed from the outset you now wish to offer a best guess based on conjecture regarding a specific event. I believe that's impossible and surely it is not accurate enough to intervene. In a player positions himself in such a manner as to prevent two assistants and the referee from seeing something he does he SHOULD get away with it!!! This player is most skilled and this will force you, the referee, to position yourself more advantageously so that you may view his actions better. Based on what you now see, that was only surmised before, you have the added tool of persistent infringement of the Laws of the Game. Use it sooner rather than later.

Regards,

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

Les, you cannot call as deliberately handled an accidentally touched ball. YOU CANNOT! By definition, if it was an accident, then it cannot be deliberate. Too many referees whistle these reflexively - teach yourself not to do that and the game will be better for it. Never mind all the "assistance" from the sidelines - they don't know any better, but YOU are supposed to know better. As Ref Fleischer notes, if you aren't seeing the handling, then you need to work harder to get an angle on the play that will let you see. Move 3 or 4 steps one way or the other so you can see through or around players, and it will help you see if the player is trying to put one over on you, or if he simply had a fortuitous bounce from a ball that accidentally hit his arm or hand. Remember, hand to ball - likely is a deliberately handled ball (rare) - ball to hand, most likely nothing - nada - nil - don't call it!

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

See Question: 18065