Question Number: 21117

Law 13 - Free Kicks 4/11/2009

RE: Club Soccer Under 15

Jessica of McCall, Idaho United States asks...

So My coach asked a question at soccer, that none of us could answer, that was, When the ref puts his hand in the air, does that mean direct, or inderect kick?
It was bugging all of us, I know that at one point I knew it, but I totaly spaced it.

Answer provided by Referee Nathan Lacy

Indirect. This item is pretty basic so perhaps you (and your teammates) could take this as an indicator that there are more aspects about the LOTG with which you could become more familiar. All the best,

Answer provided by Referee Steve Montanino

He is asking you to see if you know something of the laws. That is a good lesson for you to learn. Now, if you go ahead an learn all of the laws you will be a MUCH better player for it.

Good for your coach.

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

By U15 I would expect players to know basics of the Laws and signals, such as the raised arm for indirect kicks. If you don't know that stuff, you give your opponent who does know it a big advantage. Good for the coach to try to have you improve your learning.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

The referee will POINT his arm In the direction of the free kick then if he raises an arm straight up into the air he has JUST declared to all that the free kick as an INDFK in that a second player other than the kicker must touch that ball before it could legally enter the goal. As soon as secondary contact with the ball is made by another player the arm is lowered. I have seen a smart red keeper allow a ball to directly enter his goal the blue opposition wild in celebration get caught flat footed as he retrieved the ball placed it in the goal area and struck it to a free player for a counter attack that lead to their REAL goal at the opposite end . The blue team was unaware what the arm up had indicated too bad so sad but kudos' for a smart keeper. Score one for the team that KNOWS the laws!
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

When the referee hold her hand straight up in the air, she is signaling for an indirect free kick. This means that a goal may not be scored directly from the free kick. The ball must touch at least 1 other player after it has been put into play before a goal may be scored. The ball is in play when it is kicked and moved. This means that the ball has not been put into play simply by tapping the top of it with the bottom of the foot.