Question Number: 22736

Law 13 - Free Kicks 1/19/2010

RE: Under 17

Ron Boucher of Hastings, MN USA asks...

My team was awarded a DFK/IDFK (doesn't matter) very near the touch line. One of my players was standing outside the field of play ready to approach the ball to kick it. The CR told the player they must be in the field of play when they start their approach. This that correct? Thanks

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Ron
Totally incorrect. There is nothing the Laws of the Game that insist that a player must be on the field of play to approach a free kick or any restart. What happens at a corner kick or at a goalkick where the goalkeeper takes a long run up from off the FOP??
Yes the Laws state that players must not leave the FOP but it is also clear that as part of normal play that it is allowed and a run up to the ball is part of normal play.

Answer provided by Referee Tom Stagliano

Players are allowed to leave the Field of Play (FOP) in the normal course of playing the ball.

As referee McHugh states, for almost every corner kick that is taken, the kicker starts off the FOP. The referee must allow the kicker the opportunity to start his/her run up to the ball from off the FOP. In addition, the referee should make certain that any spectators standing along the touchline nor any subs/bench personnel along the touchline do not interfere with the kicker's run up to the ball.

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

My colleagues have addressed your question and I agree with their answers. I would like for you to address the referee assignor for the league where this game took place and tell him/her what you told us. This is a referee who needs a little educating, and it will best come from someone like the assignor.