REFEREE'S

  
 

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SMITH'S SOLUTIONS

Leedsfa.co.uk are launching the first of a new series of website features with Smith's Solutions, the Leeds FA’s questions and answer session with Referees Instructor, Fred Smith
 
So, if you see a game over the weekend and wondered why the referee gave a certain decision or if there’s a simple refereeing question that has been bugging you for ages then send your question to...        

referee@leedsfa.co.uk
 
QUESTION (May 2010)
Hello Fred,
Recently we played a league game at under 11's and I, as manager, forgot to bring the player I.D cards.  I went over and asked their assistant manager if he wants to play the game, he stated that he was fine with it and we can kick off in 5. 
Their manager turned up 15 minutes into the game and asked for the cards and told us we shouldn't be playing the game without looking at the cards,  I told him about meeting and talking to his assistant and told him that his assistant was happy to start the game.
The away teams manager wanted to see the cards so I went home and got them and we looked at both sets at end of the game, so we will get the points as we won the game 10-3.

Please help Fred

Thomas Carter
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Hello Thomas

It seems that you have broken the rules of your league, but you don't say which league it is ?
Most leagues where ID cards are mandatory, require them to be checked before the game, as stated in the WRCFA handbook, but as they were eventually produced to prove that the players were correct, I can't see that affecting the result.
If you have been reported for your error, then any resulting decision should be against you , and possibly the opposite assistant manager, not the teams concerned.
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION (May 2010)
Hello Fred,
I was at an under 15s game through the week when the referee awarded a penalty.
The penalty was taken and was saved by the keeper but the save was disallowed as the ref said that the keeper had come of his line. The penalty was retaken by another member of the opposing team, again was saved and disallowed. The penalty was taken again by a third member of the team.
My question is can a penalty be taken by different players or should it have been taken by the same player each time ?

Debra
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Hello Debra

It's surprising how many people don't know this part of the laws.
The referee is correct to allow different kickers, as long as the goalie is made aware which player is taking the kick each time.
Any member of the side can take a penalty, and in this case, the first kicker could have taken the third kick, without any offence being committed.
The law still applies to each re-take regarding encroachment, etc., and awaiting the result of the kick, before deciding any re-start by the referee.
 
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION (March 2010)
Hello Fred,
At an u17's match this weekend, we only had 7 players.   The remaining players trying to find the venue.   My question is - Was the referee correct to allow kick off, with only 6 outfield players, one outfield player nominated to play in gaol.

The remaining players did eventually find the venue, however, the excursions of the 6 v 11 had an influence on these players for the remainder of the game.

Kind Regards

Mark
FRED'S ANSWER
Thanks for your question Mark,
This is something that a lot of players and team managers are not sure about.
The referee was correct to allow the game to start with seven players, as this the minimum laid down in the laws for the start.
If one player leaves the field deliberately as a tactic the referee will play advantage until the next stoppage.   If the number is reduced by send off, injury, other reason, then the game will not be re-started.
Unless your league or competition has a rule about number of players , then this open age law will apply - Only the players on the original team sheet are allowed to join to make up the numbers, not named substitutes.
Hope this is helpful.
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION (Aug 2009)
Hi Fred,
Following several instances over the past couple of seasons watching junior football and last weekends occurrence between Spurs & Liverpool, can you advise when is a shoulder charge a shoulder charge and when is it not.

Regards

Des
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Hello Des 
The fair shoulder charge must be delivered point to point of the shoulder, and from the side, not from the front or back, and the arm (especially the elbow) should remain close to the side of the body.
Any movement of the arm outward means the" charge" becomes a push (penal offence) and usually the elbow is the first point of contact.
The referee has to judge the measure of force used and, if any danger is created by the charger. 
It is possible for a player to be knocked over by a FAIR charge, because he is off balance when it is delivered.  This looks bad but, is not an offence, as long as it was from the side and point to point.   You will of course get the shouts for a foul, which the good referee will ignore !
Don't see many correct charges on the "box" these days - Too much "arm across the body and shirt tugging by both players, especially at corners.
It needs to be cut out of the game, in my opinion.
Hope this is of help.
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION (Jul 2009)
Hi Fred, Puzzled is back again.
During a recent friendly, one of our younger players claimed for a foul throw-in on the basis that an opponent had "spun" the ball while he was throwing it. 
I think he had given the ball a bit of zip with the fingers of one hand while keeping the other hand still, or something like that. Quite a trick, maybe we will have to practise it!
Anyway, I was always brought up to believe the throw was legal as long as the thrower keeps both hands on the ball until the point of release.
I think the Law says "holds the ball with both hands". 
I guess it depends on an interpretation of "holding" as opposed to "touching", and whether or not the fingers that spin the ball count as part of the hand.
Can you advise please?
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Thanks Puzzled 
This is often a subject of debate, when referees get together and the opinion is that quite often the referee is watching the feet.
I would myself only concentrate on the hands when the throw seemed to be rather longer than usual, suspecting that one hand was doing most of the propulsion.
It is not easy to spot and the ball can be spun quite easily using both hands, by leaving the fingers spread as the last touch on the ball , rather than the palms and fingers together throw.
The law just says throw with both hands, as you say,and if both hands are in contact at the time of release, then that is ok as the law is written today, but I seem to remember there was a mention of the use of one handed throws in the" advice to referees " some years ago.
It is, as usual, up to the referee, but if the throw 
seems suspect, he/she could always be asked to "keep an eye on it.
Hope this is of help.
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION (May 2009)
Hello Fred
At a recent game a player had an ear ring in which was taped over.  After a while the tape came off exposing the ear ring.  When this was pointed out to the ref he said that he was the ref and it was ok for the player to continue on medical reasons.
As Law 4 of the Laws of the Game states that "A player must not use equipment or wear anything which is dangerous to himself or another player (including any kind of jewellery)" and the Leeds FA web site says "Therefore, with immediate effect, all items of jewellery must be removed 
by players, in all matches under the jurisdiction of the Football Association. It is thus not permissible to tape over any form of jewellery.
Was the referee correct in what he said.
Thanks Fred
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Hello confused fan.
It doesn't look as though the referee has followed the latest directives from the L&D FA or the WRCFA.
No jewellry of any kind is to be worn by players or referees and taping up is not allowed, this also includes the charity wrist bands worn by many.
I would query some of the hair styles that could make contact with an opponents face when heading the ball, further confusion is created when a certain premier league player is allowed to replace his earrings with a type of " plug " to stop the holes closing up during the game ???.
(would they do that ???).  The whole situation regarding jewellry has been handled rather badly, in my opinion, and needs sorting out with a bit of common sense.
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION (Apr 2009)
Hello Fred
We had a player booked in the last 5 mins of a game for a bad tackle no probs but, on his way back to his position, one of his team mates told him to calm down to which he replied the ref does not know what he his doing.
The ref heard this and issued a second yellow for dissent.
I thought it was only dissent when directed at the ref and, if it is dissent, would it not have been good refereeing to have a word with 5 mins to go.
This was u16s

TIM LAZARO G.T.INTERIORS LEEDS
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Thanks for your message Tim.
When a player has been cautioned he should know that any further misconduct will almost certainly mean a second yellow card and, insulting the referee's knowledge of the game loud enough for him to hear, could be classed as offensive language (which is a send off on it's own).
There doesn't need to be swearing for language to be offensive and, if the referee lets one player do this, then all the others can do it, resulting in chaos.
I don't know the context of the game or how the words were spoken but, the reaction of the referee suggests they were not just a light hearted comment to a colleague.
Most referees that have passed through our classes are advised that younger players can be coached and helped to understand the laws during play, usually by a quiet word in passing but, sometimes they have to apply the letter of the law to get the message home to certain players.
It doesn't matter if it's in the first minute or the last, sometimes it just needs doing.
I hope this helps your team to understand the role of the referee and why not take the course for the laws of the game ?, it could possibly help their playing career.
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION (Mar 2009)
Hello Fred
I am of course aware that a player can be sent off after a match or at half time, in which case his team plays the second half a man short. But what about before the game?
Recently, my lads and our opposition were lined up and ready to start a game, just waiting for the whistle, when an exchange of insults flared up between one of our team and one of the opposition.  Believe me, I have no idea what it was about - just adrenaline flowing, I guess!
When, what started as banter gave way to foul and abusive language, the referee, very sensibly in my opinion, withheld the signal for the kick-off, called our player over and gave him a few words of his own.  And I'm pleased to report the game passed off without further incident.  However, I'm  fairly sure the referee would have been quite within his rights to show the player the red card for foul and abusive language even though the game had not kicked off.
My question is - if he had done so, would we have been able to replace the sent-off player, or would our side have had to play the entire game with 10 men ?.
The Laws of the Game, understandably, are a bit vague on this point.  There are no team sheets in our league, so we could have used one of our substitutes - if allowed.
 

Puzzled
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Hello Puzzled
Thanks for your question, it does baffle a few this  situation.
You are quite right in your assumption - The referee could have sent your player off for the" offensive " language and he would have to show the red card.
Your player could only be replaced by a NAMED substitute and the referee doesn't have to hold up the kick-off for him.  It would depend on the time involved and the official kick-off time, and you would have played the game with one less substitute than the number allowed. as the named substitute can't be replaced.
You won't find this in the laws 5 or 12 but it is in law 3 (page 17 ) so it is covered , just takes a bit of finding.
Remember only named substitutes can be used.
 
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION (Feb 2009)
Hello Fred
As a JFL manager, I recently watched a junior football match at which the home team had appointed their manager as the referee.
I accepted that decision - as had the person concerned and all that brings with it in terms of responsibilty and upholding the laws and principle of the game. However the person in question gave an inadequate performance, abrogated responsibility, was inconsistent with decisons and showed little control during a series of unsportsman like incidents. 
There were health and safety concerns and no action taken. He was marked on the team sheet accordingly. 
My question is this: if a person steps in to ref a game, charged with and accepting the responsibilities of Rule 13B and then underperforms to such a degree, how would this be viewed by the referees association and the league committee? How are these situations dealt with? Are they "untouchable" so to speak due to the backing of the FA? And if so, does that not run the risk of, dare I say having the means to meet an end - a win? 
 

Confused Manager
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Hello Rob
Thanks for your message, and I can appreciate the problem you had with a poor performance referee, but the rule is that he/she is there by mutual agreement, and as you say has the backing of the FA for that game.
As you played the whole game, I don't think anything can be done about the result at this late stage, but nobody is " untouchable " in football.
The RA have no input as he obviously wasn't a member, but the league committee "could" do something, depending on your match report, or accompanying letter etc.
The answer here is for you to refuse to play on with this man in charge, no later than half time, in my opinion, health and safety would be one good reason, and then report everything to the league - And why not have somebody from your club, and every club in the league, take the referee course to at least learn the laws , and be available to stand-in when there's no referee, which is sadly too often these days. 
Hope this is of help.
 
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION ( Dec 2008)
Hello Fred
At a recent sunday match I saw a player booked for swearing.  On Match of the Day the professional players swear all the time at the referee with no action taken.
Remember Wayne Rooney and Graham Poll
At what level of football do you have to reach to be able to swear at the referee.
Why do football referees tolerate this behaviour.   It does not happen in rugby.
Why have the FA bottled their Respect campaign
Surely we all play be the same rules

Steve
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Thanks Steve
It's the same old story with language in football as it is in society.  Lack of respect for the rules and too much aggression in peoples attitude to each other.
Swearing is a send off, not a caution, according to the  L.O.A.F.,and I can refer you to previous letters and answers on the subject, in this section.  There is a need for some deterant for the general language.  I would favour a DIRECT kick (could get a penalty in the area) and also sent off if directed AT the  referee.
But, whilst the professional side of football regard it as the footballers "workshop" language, we can't do anymore than teach the laws as they stand and hope that sometime soon FIFA give the referee the means to cut it out..
 
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION ( Nov 2008)
Hello Fred
Watched a game the other week and the club 'assistant referee' flagged for an offside against a forward who didn't touch the ball or was involved in the move
The goal scorer picked the ball up from another player and dribbled past defender and scored.  We challenged the decision before free kick was taken but referee said (after consulting) that the 'assistant referee' had stated that the player in the middle was 'offside'.
Don't disagree player in question was offside but couldn't have been active or interfering as not involved in the move.  Personally I would rather it was left to the referee without outside influence to get it right/wrong.

John
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Thanks John
I agree most times it is better left to the referee, especially at the local level, and it is advice from the County FA that "club linesmen" be only asked to do ball -in-out of play
Where it is organised and the people in question are trained in the offside situations, then it can be a big help to the referee, especially the newer ones
This happens in Hampshire and a number of other counties, and quite a few years ago on the County Amateur League around Bradford area (might still be so ) where each team had a regular " linesman "who came in for instructions before each game, and it worked well.
I suppose that the latest changes regarding "interfering" and "active" will complicate things for most teams who aren't used to having "lines" do more than signal for throws, so as you say , it is better coming from the referee.
 
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION ( Oct 2008)
Hello Fred
In a recent Coventry City Vs Wolves game, a goal scored by a Wolves player was discussed at length in the media.
For those that didn’t see it, the situation was that a Wolves player attacking the Coventry goal and through his own momentum, went off the field of play just beside the Coventry goal post.  Play continued on the field and a Wolves player headed the ball towards goal.  At this point the player off the field came back on and diverted the ball in to score.  Had he been on the field, there would not have been any doubt that he was offside.  
However, the goal stood.  I’m uncomfortable with this decision and would have disallowed the goal.  Who’s correct?

Derek
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Thanks for the question David
I'm with you on this, although I didn't see the incident and don't know where all the defenders were, but if he came back on into an offside position then the "goal " can't be given, as he is guilty of  interfering with play, by touching the ball.
If the referee has decided no offside because the player was off the field when his team-mate headed the ball, then, in my opinion, he is guilty of unsporting behaviour by playing the ball, and should be cautioned.
Hope this helps, can't think of any way the goal would stand but would be nice to know what the referee thought , or anyone else who saw this game
 
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION ( May 2008)
Hello Fred
I was just wondering what your opinions are on parents with 'touchline rage'.
How do you think it can affect the kids' performance and desire to play? And what punishment if any should be dished out for repeat offenders?  
Do you have certain policies?

Derek
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Hello Jamie
Thanks for your message, here are a few facts and thoughts.
The FA, through the County hand book, have quite a lot of regulations regarding the code of conduct, for players, coaches, teams and officials.  If everybody does what they are supposed to, life would be lovely, but it doesn't work out like that as some parents become obsessed with their own child's performance.
Teams, through their coaches, have to inform their players and parents what is expected of them
ie. show respect to everybody connected to the game, and behave in a fair manner at all times 
Anything reported that breaches the regulations is dealt with by the FA, either at county or district level.
The referee is the one who has to deal with touchline problems in the first instance, usually comments in unsuitable language, developing into abuse, if not dealt with quickly.
He has various options, from having the offender removed (depending on the situation) if he/she refuses to be quiet.  To suspending the game, or even abandoning, and reporting the matter to county FA.
I don't think the parent helps the child by being this way, and some clubs and teams have club rules to the effect that the child of the parent at fault will not be picked for the  team until behaviour improves.   I think that will work in most cases,  because,  in the worst cases the FA can fine or suspend the club, where referees keep getting abuse etc., and then the whole team suffer because of one or two individuals
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION ( Apr 2008)
Hi Fred
I was refereeing a game last weekend and wanted to know if you have known a game with so many penalties awarded to one side. 
I awarded 4 penalties to one side. Is this some kind of record of is it me thinking it may be a record.
Your thoughts would be interesting.
Yours in Sport

Derek
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Hello Derek
That's not bad four penalties,
I never kept any records myself, but I can remember giving three in a game on a few   occasions, and one was retaken three times (goalie moving etc ) in one of those games - Does that count I wonder ?
A good point though, and I hope someone who keeps this kind of record (and quite a lot of referees do) will mail in with their own tales on the subject.
I like penalties !, could be (should be ?) one at almost every corner I watch on the television.
It would stop all this rubbish that goes on now and make the defenders look for the ball, instead of wrestling with the attackers.
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION ( Apr 2008)
Dear Fred
Not a question as such, just after your thoughts on the subject of ankle strapping...
For some reason, there is an almost fashionable trend for players to wear ankle strapping.  In the main, this is white.
Just to go back a couple of seasons, it was introduced that undershorts had to be the same colour of the player's outer shorts.  Then more recently, the under shirts had to be the same colour as the player's shirts.  (all of course if the under garments are visible).  So this takes me back on to ankle strapping and especially those players who seen to practically obliterate the main colour of their socks.
Now I know it's not dangerous, so why get involved, but do you believe that there will be a Law amendment to cover this matter.
Regards

David Bransby
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Thanks for the question David
I suppose the ankle strapping will be the same as all the other things - If somebody complains (wouldn't be a manager would it ?) over an incident caused by "mistaken leg identification" that affects a result, then the great body of FIFA will decide all strapping should be the same as shin guards, under the socks at all times, and that will be a bit more for the new referees to put into their pre-match inspection.
But don't hold your breath !  This will be the same as referees at all levels being allowed to wear "coloured shirts" when a clash between teams wearing dark (or even black) shirts happens.
Could be some time before it gets into the laws !
Cheers  Fred
 

 

QUESTION ( Feb 2008)
Dear Fred
Can you clear this one up
Off side or not off side if it comes off a defender, or passed back by a defender.
I blew for off side when a player flicked on a pass, he didn't mean to it was just too high to head.
I said when the lad played it, (about 4 yds away) the forward was off side.
The fact it hit a defender on the head on its way doesn't render the forward on side, or does it?

Referee
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Offside is judged from when a player of the same side plays the ball.
If it strikes an opponent on it's way forward that doesn't alter the decision,  but if an opponent controls the ball and plays it with a deliberate movement then he becomes the last to play the ball, and so no offside.
A deliberate pass by a player towards his own goal can never result in  offside, even if it goes to an opponent in an offside position.
From your message , it seems as though you gave the right decision.
Hope this is of helps
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION ( Feb 2008)
Dear Fred
Today we had a goal disallowed, in the most bizarre circumstances. 
Our opponents wanted to make a substitution, the ref agreed, then waved play on. We took the throw in, and subsequently scored a brilliant goal, 20-30 seconds after the throw in.
The ref gave the goal, allowed the players to celebrate, then blew his whistle and disallowed the goal.
His explanation was that our opponents had 12 men on the pitch, as he assumed the player to be subbed had left the field, but he had not.
We gained no advantage from his mistake, he allowed play to continue, and admitted to me afterwards that he had made a shambles of the situation.
Three players were booked for dissent, and one player was sent off, as a result of their frustration.

Confused Tingley
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Thanks Sarah
I'm not surprised you are confused, it's a very unusual situation, so let's see what we can make of it.
The substitution has not been made correctly (ie  one player off before the other enters the field) and one team have 12 men, so the goal cannot be allowed,
If the referee waved the sub on this was not a signal to take the throw-in and then he should have stopped play (and cancelled the goal) until the subbed player left the field.
This seems to be the logical explanation but, if the referee has waved play on before the sub was completed, then he has made a serious error, and having watched a goal scored, has then realized his mistake and taken play back to the substitution point.
Referees, like players, sometimes make mistakes and the fact he admitted this afterwards shows he has learnt from it, but doesn't excuse the players who get cautioned and sent off for dissenting with decisions which they think are wrong.
It's usually the team with the extra man who lose the advantage, but the other way around this time.
You didn't say if the "goal" affected the result, I hope not.
I think everybody can learn from this and hope it's been of help to you and your team
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION ( Dec 2007)
Dear Fred
I remember the pass back rule coming in some years ago, it was my understanding that this was to stop time wasting especially towards the end of the game.
A by product of this rule which quickly came into play was the use of a defenders body to shield the ball out of play.
This has almost the same effect as a back pass giving the ball to the keeper, and although the keeper is limited to where he can play the ball (6 yard Area) he also can't be challenged. 
In my opinion this shielding has got too excessive and aggressive and in most other areas of the pitch a free kick would be awarded.
I feel if this was deemed an offence, (to shield the ball so vigorously 'OBSTRUCTION' ), unless the defender had put a touch on the ball, the initial reason for bringing the back pass rule in would be upheld making the game more offensive.  
 

Yours frustrated

DAGGER
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Thanks Joanne
The word obstruction has been replaced in the laws with impeding, and just like the old obstruction , there is no offence if you are" playing the ball "by shielding it within playing distance, which is what happens when following the ball to the goal line
It is all down to the referee to decide how much is shielding , how much is pushing, and if any body contact occurs, and is the ball always in playing distance
The goalkeeper is not allowed to handle the ball from a deliberate kick to him, or a throw -in, from a member of his own team, but he is not restricted from playing the ball with his feet anywhere on the field and , in normal play, can handle the ball only in his own penalty area
I agree with your feeling frustrated, especially at the corner flag situation when time is used up, and perhaps one day it may be classed an offence 
Who knows, we are in the hands of FIFA
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION ( Dec 2007)
Dear Fred
I read with interest the correspondence you have received about added time at the end of the game.
I recently witnessed a ref add nearly 15 MINS INJURY TIME to the end of an under 19 league game last month.Neither trainer had been on the pitch to attend an injury and as the game was played at an NCE Ground the pitch was enclosed so the ball didn't take an overly long time to get back to the keepers or on to the field of play for any restarts.
The linesman informed the manager of one team that they had played 90 secs of injury time.He then decided to make a sub which, as they were leading 2-1 was an obvious thing to do. The ref decided to play an extra 13 mins.
When asked why he played so long, he said he stopped the watch whilst he was talking to each player,which he did after every foul was committed.
This surely can't be correct as it was his choice to lecture every player even after the smallest incident.
For your information he never played 30 secs injury time in the 1st half.
It was an unbelievable performance from the ref who really really wanted to be the centre of attention.
Your comments would be appreciated.

Regards

Football Fan

 
FRED'S ANSWER
Thanks for your message, and it is hard to understand the thinking of this referee
We know he is the sole judge of time and has to add time on for stoppages, but if you class a stoppage as every time the ball is out of play, you would take nearly three hours to get ninety minutes of play in and he should have added something to the first half if that was his way of calculating the time to add
Perhaps he will read this and learn from it, and  that fifteen minutes sounds quite a lot  of time, but he doesn't have to explain why he decided how much time to add
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION ( Nov 2007)
Dear Fred
My son was playing in goals for his local under 13s team  and palmed a cross away for a corner, the Referee unbelievably gave a penalty, saying that a defender had handballed.
The goalkeeper questioned the refs decision and the ref then sent the keeper off saying that he had swore at him. This resulted in a £35 fine and a 5 match ban.
These matches included 2 cup semi finals.
The next evening whilst watching Manchester Utd on TV we watched Wayne Rooney swear at the referee throughout the game for the full 90 mins, The outcome was not even a yellow card.

My son gets £5 a week pocket money, having to pay 7 weeks pocket money to cover his fine and seeing Rooney earning £100k per week and commit the same offence and get away with it has resulted in my son quitting the game completely.  If there is no consistency with refs and one rule for one and another rule for others how do you expect our young players to want to embrace the beautiful game.

Yours sincerely

Level 2 coach and disillusioned  dad
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Thanks  "disillusioned dad "
I could refer you to some of the previous answers given regarding language and the television,
Most people know my views on what could cut out all the "language "...   sin bin...   blue card...   free kick...   fine the club...   deduct points...   etc.
It could be done, but the "powers that be" don't seem to want to do enough to control decline in standards that is spoiling what is supposed to be  "sport "
Now,  I am presuming that the referee was officially appointed to the game.  If that is so then your son was wrong to question the referee in such  a way that got him sent off, but it begs a couple of questions ??
Why didn't the referee caution , or send off, the player he said handled the ball ??   Did you appeal the send off ?
Why do the FA and the league managers allow a different tolerant level at the top that doesn't apply at the bottom, as we can only teach referees to use the laws as they stand
"Language" is a send off offence full stop
Until there are some other "in between " punishments introduced, that is the only way for the referee to deal with the offence - Not a lot of help for your son , but  I would urge him to play again and if he  doesn't make the top, why not become a referee ?, and help to make some other lads game enjoyable  ???
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION ( Sep 2007)
Dear Fred
I reffed a kids u11 game last week.  The pitch is on a slope and next to a road.
There was only 1 match ball, so when the ball went down the hill, I stopped my watch and added time on a the end.
When I added the time on, 1 of the mangers was complaining that you are not allowed to add time on for the ball going out of play.
I don't understand this, because somebody could easily smash the ball 50 yards and use up time, if you are winning.

Regards

Simon
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Hello Simon,
The answer is that the referee is in charge of the time, and keeping a record of the game.
Some leagues state that two balls must be provided, which helps to keep the "standing time" to a minimum.
Any incidents of time wasting by deliberately kicking the ball out of play can be dealt with, but in this instance it would only be a matter of adding a few minutes - Quite acceptable, bearing in mind  the recommended playing time for the age group, (30 mins each way) 
But, it's only the referees opinion that counts,  the managers don't need to be told why you've  added time.
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION ( Sep 2007)
Dear Fred
A forward goes into the area with the ball, he is fouled, the referee rightly awards a penalty.
The forward is injured and the trainer comes on to see to the injury, a bit of magic water and the player is ok again.
The same forward is the penalty taker for the team, but the referee insists he has to leave the field of play, but we want him to take the penalty, what should happen?
The defending team gain an advantage as our usual penalty taker is not allowed to take the spot kick, how can this be correct?
I feel that if a player is injured and receives treatment as a result of an infringement on him, then he should be allowed to remain on the field, 
Could you please clarify.

Regards

Steve
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Hello Steve,
I have to agree with you that it looks unfair on your team as Law (5) states that players can't come back on until the game restarts.
However, the referee is bound by the FIFA instructions and the LOAF so he has no option but to carry them out.
It would be covered if the law perhaps stated "Only where the game has been stopped solely for the injury"  this would cover all stops where a kick is awarded.
I have passed this on to HQ and, who knows ?, it may effect a change for the good of the game.
It also begs the question "What do you do if the player in question is unable to continue ?"
Answer !..   Have more than one penalty taker !
I'll let you know if anything comes of it
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION ( July 2007)
Dear Fred
I wonder if you are aware of any written rules regarding the tying back of long hair.
One of my players (he's 15) insists he does not need to tie back his hair or wear a band, as it does not affect his vision.
Myself and my coaches beg to differ, but would like some clarification.

Regards

Sarah
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Hello Sarah,
Thanks for your query.  There are no hard and fast rules laid down by the FA,
The only thing that covers this is the "danger" part of law 4...
The Referee on the day can decide that long flowing hair is a danger to others, and possibly to himself, and then the player would have to "make it safe" to the referees satisfaction.
You could make a team rule about "dress and behaviour" in the interests of safety,  but be careful of the EU Human Rights angle
Sorry I can't be more helpful, let's hope you get the right  referee every week.
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION ( June 2007)
Hi Fred
Playing a 7aside game, an opponent was yellow carded and ‘sin binned’ for 5 minutes after swearing at the referee, once off the pitch he swore further at the referee resulting in a red card and dismissal of the player from any further part in the game.
Our opponents now played with 6 men, however when the five minutes were up, the referee allowed them to replace the ‘sent off’ player with a substitute and finished the game with seven men.
The referee stated he sent the player off whilst not on the field of play and therefore when the five minutes ’sin bin’ were up the team could bring on a player.
Please may I ask you to clarify this rule as our opponents were not penalised for the sending off. 
Our opponents simply had a player ‘sin binned’ for 5 minutes even though they suffered a dismissal. 
I have heard of this happening in the tunnel after a game or at half time but only in an 11 aside game, never seen it in a 7 or 5 aside game.

Regards

Garry
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Hello Gary,
Thanks for your question but you don't say if this was a league game or friendly/charity/cup match...   Whatever, there are things wrong
To send a player to the sin-bin the referee should show a blue card (two blue cards equal a send off)
The offence of swearing at the referee is a red card and a sending off which should be reported to county
Yellow cards are not to be used in small-sided games
The player sent off can't be replaced by a substitute, as in all sections of football
This will apply to all local games, UNLESS ! (I can't think they would ) the WRCFA have sanctioned a competitions rules that allow such a substitution
So the referee (was he "officially appointed" and registered ?) needs to check his FA rules for small-sided games
Hope this helps
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION ( November 2006)
Hi Fred
Here's a good one for you
Recently, I witnessed a referee blow his whistle after a defender caught the ball from an opposing defenders clearance kick.
When questioned he explained he had been waiting for an advantage to develop from a foul to the same team as the defender who caught the ball. He gave a free kick to the defenders team.
Whilst I can understand the logic the impression given was one where the opposing centre half directed the referees decision.
Later in the game an attacker was clipped as he went passed a defender, the ref put his whistle in his mouth, the attacker took on the next defender, got in a tussle, lost out, when I looked at the ref again he was taking the whistle out of his mouth.
I felt the attacker should have picked up the ball !!
All the best, its a tough job, applying the laws and keeping everyone happy!
Regards
Garry
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Hello Gary,
The situation you describe is a little confusing as you didn't identify which "defender" got the free kick
So, assuming it was the one who caught the ball, (the centre half ?) I can see where the impression that he was making the decision would come from this gives the idea of a "soft" referee, even though he's just trying to be fair to both sides
It's the same when you give a "close" offside just as three defenders all shout "offside ref", and the attackers say " he's only blown because they shouted" and then they try the same tactic at the other end..............and the game suffers
I've had the "picking up " happen on occasions and always gave a kick for handball, to stop players making dcisions BEFORE  I'd stopped play
In the second part you mention, the referee had probably gone past the " two or three seconds" allowed to reverse an advantage BUT ??  because of his earlier decision there  was the possibility of the player picking up the ball , and claiming the kick
So the advice is be in charge, make your own decisions, and DON'T LET players try to RUN your game (you could put RUIN there I suppose)
Thanks again, it's a good teaching point
Cheers  Fred
 
QUESTION ( July 2006)
Hi Fred
I really enjoy reading your Q & A on the Leeds FA website but would like to raise a point about your answer for the April 2006 question
Sorry to quote law but Law 12 - Fouls & Misconduct states
DIRECT FREE KICK
A direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player commits any of the following six offences in a manner considered by the referee to be careless, reckless or using excessive force: 
?       kicks or attempts to kick an opponent
The Law does not ask Referees to interpret whether the action of a player is intentional (with the exception of handball).  He only has to consider whether the offence was considered to be careless, reckless or using excessive force, therefore the answer to Johnny’s enquiry should be:
“No, the decision would be a direct free kick for, as you stated in your question, kicking an opponent, punishable by a penalty kick as the offence was committed inside his own penalty area.
The referee may only interpret dangerous play when contact is NOT made.
I hope you do not mind me posting this amendment to you.
 
Best regards,

Lee McCormack
 
FRED'S ANSWER
Hello, Lee,
Thanks for your comments, but you have ignored the word "accidental" in your view of the situation , and if you awarded a penalty, you would also have to send off for serious foul play, as that is what kicking an opponent becomes.
When a player attempts to kick the ball by raising his foot too high, it only becomes dangerous if another player is near enough to be put in danger by the high action.
This is especially true of the "scissors" kick.  If contact with the other player happens, then the referee is required( law 5 ) to make a decision based on his opinion of the danger involved, and because this is accidental he can only award an" indirect " kick restart.
I do hope that you don't make decisions in your games based on what you have said in your email (and that goes for any other unsure referees who may read this)  and would recommend you to read the FA learning book "Advice on the Application of the Laws of the Game" (page 13 is relative), suppplied by WRFCA in the welcome packs for new referees
I'm sure they would supply one if you passed before the  welcome packs started.
Cheers  Fred
QUESTION ( July 2006)
One thing which has been bugging me for a while now
On a few occasions in different games last season an opponent trying to receive the ball shouts "My ball" or "Leave it"
Each occasion I have given and indirect free kick against them for unsporting behaviour a couple of teams have been saying things like "Thats an old Law now, and you can shout what you want" 
I don't believe this is true, as I've heard nothing, could you please clarify cos it's still seeking to gain and advantage
 
James Mackintosh
FRED'S ANSWER
Hello James, thanks for your question
There is nothing in law to stop a player shouting a name or anything else, BUT !  if he gains an advantage with his words, he offends, and you have to judge if an opponent was affected by the shout, or denied a chance to play the ball. 
If so, and you decide this is Unsporting Behaviour, then the indirect kick should be the award.
A caution /yellow card is the punishment for Unsporting Behaviour.
It all rests on your opinion of how it affects the game at the time of the shout
 
Cheers  Fred
QUESTION ( Apr 2006)
If a defender kicks an opponent accidentally in the face in the penalty area with his feet high up would I be correct to award a indirect free kick ?
Would this be dangerous play  ?
 

Thanks Johnny
FRED'S ANSWER
Yes, as the action is accidental and not deliberate.
The decision would be dangerous play, with the indirect free kick restart.
Make sure you check the possiblity of bleeding if the injury is serious enough
 
Cheers  Fred
QUESTION ( Dec 2005)
Hi Fred
What would happen if the ball had crossed the line for a goal which was indicated by a neutral assistant but the referee missed signal 
Then in the same move the ball went to the other end and a goal was scored or the defending goalkeeper brought down the attacking player in the penalty area

Cheers Paul
FRED'S ANSWER
The answer is that a well instructed assistant would have kept his flag up until his opposite number also flagged to the referee
Or somebody, possibly from the team that was attacking the goal in question, called the referees' attention to the raised flag(s)
Then, on the assistants information, the goal would be awarded.
Nothing that happened regarding play or other restarts would count, BUT any MISCONDUCT would be punished, without changing the restart , i.e. kick-off
It is important that referees and assistants work together and support each other when this situation arises.  That is where good pre-match instructions are essential
Cheers Fred
QUESTION ( Sep 2005)
I finished the training last year and have since refereed a number of games, however there is one aspect of the offside rule that I am still unsure about. – It raised its head again on Sunday and I would appreciate your clarification of the rule please.
Attacking team in defending team’s goal area, attacker in possession of ball some 7 yards from goal line
In a line with him are 2 other attacking players and all 3 are nearer to defending team’s goal line than any of defending team except for defending keeper (note NOT in front of ball).

Attacker shoots, goal keeper parries, but the 2 other members of attacking team have followed up, one puts rebounded ball into back of net.
When the ball was played (the shot) attackers team-mates were not in an offside position.
Shot parried by keeper into path of another of attacking team who scores.
Is this a goal or is he offside.
 

Craig Gannon
FRED'S ANSWER
Nice to hear from you Craig
In the situation described the players are all onside, because they are behind the ball the whole time
The parry by the goalie does not alter this
If one of the attackers had been in front of the ball when it was  shot at goal, then he would  be offside when the ball was parried - If he played it
In the new "Laws of Association Football" book you'll find lots of diagrams and questions & answers, all on law 11
Cheers Fred
QUESTION ( Jun 2005)
Are the laws of the game different in five a side or small sided competitions as regards shin pads
 
Paul
FRED'S ANSWER
No,  the laws of eleven-a-side apply with regard to players equipment and safety, unless the competition rules have been modified and passed by the WRCFA (perhaps for some"soft ball" special competition)  but the safety of players is treated just the same as normal, and should come first
QUESTION ( Mar 2005)
Has law 15 changed
I see professional and amateur players in some games can now take throw-ins with only one foot on the ground..
Peter Soldiersfield
FRED'S ANSWER
The throw-in is yet another area where the law gets bent slightly and illegal throws are tolerated or ignored by the officials.   And not just feet problems,  some look to be almost "one-handed" in their delivery which can be quite an advantage on the" long throw "
It all rests with the referee !
Are you doing your job correctly or are you the LAZY or CASUAL type  ?
The one that the assessors keep having to mark lower just because of their slack attitude to the laws and how they apply them  on the field.
Come on referees, these things can influence your future promotion..........it's up to you !
QUESTION ( Feb 2005)
Your comments about players swearing were very interesting but when Wayne Rooney can use the F word- many many times-as in Arsenal v Man Utd to Referee Poll and nothing is done isn't it a bit hypocritical and soft and bullying by referees  on a Sunday morning taking the easy option to get money for the County F.A.
To say players at local soccer level can be sent off -when nothing is done in the professional game....I was under the impression the same laws applied to everyone
Apparently not so
Also can you tell me at what level my son needs to reach so he can swear at the referee and nothing is done......We all watch TV so don't say it dosen't happen
 
Steve Riding
PS I DON'T AGREE WITH SWEARING ON THE PITCH I AM JUST MAKING A POINT
FRED'S ANSWER
I don't think it's fair to use your description of the Sunday morning referees
They are ( or should be, if they have taken notice of what we teach them in class, )  trying to play to the laws and keep the "language " out of football, but get let down by some TV footage.
Should the producer edit it out ?  should it be used by the FA to enforce what they send out to referees as advice ?  should the club/ managers be fined ,or docked points for players offences ?   does the "  power " of the league influence the acceptance level ?    ............who knows ? 
What I can tell you, for your son,  is if he uses " language " on the field , he could be sent off !!
If he uses it AT the referee, he WILL be sent off, or the referee is not doing his job !!          
QUESTION ( Jan 2005)
Is it OK for players to have socks down and show shin pads.
Is it OK for goalkeepers have all black kit on.
Is it OK for players to use foul language.
Peter Soldiersfield
FRED'S ANSWER
Shin pads must be covered entirely by the stockings ,  that is the wording in the LAW 4.  The player at fault can be sent from the field , and may not return without referees permission, so if the referees do their job correctly, the players will soon learn to "keep their socks up "
The referees UNIFORM is defined in the FA instructions as plain black and goalkeepers must wear colours which differ from all other players AND THE REFEREE  AND  ASSISTANTS, so the goalies should never wear black. ( come on you referees !  makes your job easier if you do it right)
With "language" LAW 12 is very rigid, although the word foul has been replaced with offensive / insulting it is still a SEND OFF and far too much is heard on the field without SOME ACTION from the official in the middle.  I'd like to see an intermediate stage introduced into the law,  perhaps a "direct free kick"
YES  I DO MEAN DIRECT !  that would shut a lot up !....    or maybe a few minutes in "the sin bin"
for the more indirect language, perhaps the BLUE card that has been talked about ????
QUESTION ( Dec 2004)
As a player takes a quick throw in he has no team mates to take it with is he allowed to throw the ball at an opponent to play it off him? or is this unsporting behaviour
Paul
FRED'S ANSWER
There are various ways of looking at this
Firstly the thrower can't throw the ball AT anybody (could be taken to be striking offence )
If he throws to an opponent who is facing him, hoping to play the rebound, or take the ball from him, that's OK
If he throws onto an opponents back , that's the same as if it were a member of his own team, and an indirect free kick for playing the ball twice, as the player whose back he used has not PLAYED the ball.  This could be unsporting behaviour in the referees opinion
It is very difficult to throw to anyone within a few yards (or even METRES) without making an illegal throw, and this would certainly be the  case if you tried to throw AT someone.
QUESTION ( Nov 2004)
Fred, if a player simulates throwing a ball at a ref what is the decision.
Also, are referees and assistants at football league told to step between players who run to the crowd i feel this is an accident waiting to happen.
Paul
FRED'S ANSWER
The question leaves no doubt about what is happening.
Simulate means to pretend, and as the referee can't read minds , the " action" looks like an "attempt" to throw the ball AT the referee (not TO him) and this is a striking offence with the red card /send off result.   I wouldn't like to leave this player on , and risk others challenging my authority.
Officials on the higher leagues are instructed to be pro-active in preventing players from going where they could be in danger when celebrating goals.    The action of going over the hoardings/adverts to the crowd is a cautionable offence, and should be administered when the player(s) return to the field.
I agree there is an accident possibility in all these "over the top" celebrations,  and I'm surprised the "scorer" doesn't surface with a broken arm or leg from some of the piles of players that occur (far too often in my opinion)
QUESTION ( Nov 2004)
Can you tell us why, in Premiership and Coca-Cola Championship matches, an injured player who is treated on the field of play, is sometimes asked to leave the field of play before the game can be restarted, even though the player is obviously fit enough to carry on. On other occasions the player is not asked to leave the field, and the game restarts with him still on the pitch.
Is there a hard and fast rule as to different injuries/situations when the player must leave or stay, before the game can be restarted?
Obviously with the goalkeeper for instance the player has to remain on the pitch, but outfield players seem to be treated differently to one another within the same game, therefore under the same set of officials!
We look forward to your reply to this question, which has puzzled us for a season or three!
John Hinchliffe & Brian Wilcox, Thornes Juns
(and Leeds United FC season ticket holders, with not much else to occupy our minds during the games at Elland Road!) 
FRED'S ANSWER
The answer to your question lies in the referees assessment of the injury.
If he stops play and sends for the "doctor" (trainer usually) who decides treatment is needed, then the player MUST leave the field(and can only return with the referees permission).
If the decision is "no treatment" then the player can stop on.
At the "higher level" of Leeds United (ha! ha!) the doctor should be followed by the stretcher to ensure the swift and safe removal of the player, either walking or on the stretcher.         There are exceptions to this in the case of the goalie, or the goalie /player clash needing immediate attention,  or the swallowed tongue incident etc.
This is all contained in the additional instructions to referees in the laws of the game (page 76/77)
Obviously, at local level , common sense takes over where the safety of players is concerned, and the facilities on the touch line are different. 
Cheers  Fred

 

 
QUESTION (Oct 2004)
I've heard very little of the six second law this season for goal keepers releasing the ball.
Is it still in place or was it rescinded ?
 
Thanks
Richard Benton
FRED'S ANSWER
Law 12 says that goalkeepers are only allowed to keep "possession" for six seconds before releasing the ball into play
Any infringement should be punished by an indirect free kick
QUESTION (Oct 2004)
At my game today players kept shouting ‘Leave it’   ‘It’s mine’   ‘Yes’  but the referee did not give a single free kick against them
Can you please explain why ?
 
John,  Harehills
FRED'S ANSWER
There is nothing in the laws to stop a player shouting or calling.
But, if  "in the opinion of the Referee", the player affected the opponents play and gained an unfair advantage, it would be deemed unsporting behaviour 
The player should be cautioned and play re-started with an indirect free kick
Adding a name to the shout does not make any difference to the decision
QUESTION (Oct 2004)
If a defending player is lying on the floor injured, is he still counted when deciding if an opposing player is offside or would this be left to the judgement of the referee ?
Jim, Garforth 
FRED'S ANSWER
The referee must decide about an injured player
If an injury is not considered serious then play may be allowed to continue
If play continues the the position of the injured player would affect the decision for off-side etc
The likeliest scenario would be to stop play as referees are also instructed to respect the safety of players at all times
QUESTION (Aug 2004)
What happens if a dog runs onto the pitch and grabs the ball? How do you restart the game?
John Hay, Whinmoor
 
FRED'S ANSWER
The dog is deemed to be an outside agent;   the game would be stopped and restarted with a drop ball where the dog grabbed the ball. 
Unless it happened in the goal area (six yard box) when the ball would be dropped on the goal area line parallel to where the incident occurred.
QUESTION (May 2004
Re: FA Cup Final. As you probably saw there was an incident near the end of the 1st Half when Dennis Wise was almost wrestling with Paul Scholes whilst waiting for a free kick to be taken. The referee (Jeff Winter) clearly saw the incident and like me probably felt that there was fault on both sides. He spoke to both of the players, then immediately afterwards Scholes ended up on the floor, still before the free kick was taken.
The referee took no action against either player and I was wondering whether this was because the ball had not entered play from the free kick situation ? 
Hope you are able to provide an answer to this question.

John Jones,  Farsley OB
 
FRED'S ANSWER
If something happens on the Field of Play between players who are waiting for a free kick, corner kick, goal kick or throw-in then the game can only get going again with the original restart.
This is because the referee cannot award a free kick of any kind while the ball is out of play.
If the offence warrants a caution or a send off the referee can do so but he must then re-start with the original free kick, corner kick, goal kick or throw-in.
QUESTION (May 2004
Is a player who has been substitut ed in a match allow ed to return to the field of play as a substitute for another player later on in the same match?
 
Tom Jackson, Bramley
FRED'S ANSWER
In open age football the answer is no as in Law 3 it states ‘a player who has been replac ed takes no further part in the match.
However there can be modifications in the Laws of the Game for players under 16 years of age, for women footballers, for veteran footballers (over 35 years) and for players with disabilities.
Any or all of the following modifications are permissible:
* Size of the field of play
* Size, weight and material of the ball
*

Width between the goalposts and height of the crossbar from the ground
* The duration of the periods of play
* Substitutions
All of the above would be subject to the competition rules.
QUESTION (May 2004)
This weekend I saw a strange incident.
A defender and a forward chased a ball towards the goal line, within the penalty area. The ball was stopped within the field of play and the two players slid out of the pitch beyond the goal line. As the forward was first to his feet he ran towards the ball but was deliberately tripped by the floored defender (still off the field of play) hence preventing him being first to the ball. 
The referee took no action. Was this correct?
Could it have been a sending off for "denying an obvious goal scoring opportunity", as the situation was of that nature?
B. Jacobs, Alwoodley
FRED'S ANSWER
I also saw the incident and it was a strange one.
Both players were off the field of play at the time of the incident so a free kick could not be awarded where the offence was.
 
I am not sure the referee saw what happened as he would have followed the ball but lets assume he did if he had stopped play he would have restarted play where the ball was at time of stoppage. (Subject to it being outside the goal area)
 
The player could not be sent off for "denying an obvious goal scoring opportunity", as he was not moving directly towards the opponents goal. However if the referee had seen the incident or his assistant had inform the referee of what happened. The player may have been cautioned for unsporting behaviour. 
QUESTION (May 2004)
Within a match at the weekend a penalty was given by a referee and the opposing side had three players line up and make runs towards to ball, the middle one then shot and scored.
Is this allowed within the laws of the game. 
 
Mary Smith, Garforth
FRED'S ANSWER
At the taking of a penalty kick all players except the goalkeeper and the player taking the kick must be at least 10 yards from the ball, outside the penalty area and behind the ball.
 
The player taking the kick must be identified.  Once identifi ed there is no reason why he/she should stand outside the penalty area until the referee has signaled for the kick to be taken. If another player then runs into the area the referee should wait for the outcome of the kick - If a goal was scored disallow it and caution the player for unsporting behavior, then have the kick retaken. If a goal was not scored then, when the ball is next out of play, caution the player for unsporting behavior and restart the game as normal.            
QUESTION (Mar 2004)
At a recent Unibond League game, one team was awarded a penalty.  Immediately prior to the kick being taken, the opposing team made a substitution to put more pressure on the taker. Is this allowed  ?
 

T Perkins, Harrogate
FRED'S ANSWER
It would be up to the referee when he allowed the substitution to take place. The law states:   (1) During a stoppage in play. (2) With the referees permission. (3) The player he is replacing has left the Field of Play. (4) The substitute enters the Field of Play at the halfway line.
 
So if the referee on the day decides to allow the substitution before the penalty kick is taken this is ok providing the above was carried out correctly.
QUESTION (Feb 2004)

1. How many footballs are available to the referee during a game?
 
2. During the game are they under the control of the fourth official, and does the referee check the quality of all available balls before the game, including the ball pressures?
 

3. Why do Nationwide teams play with a yellow ball in the winter months, but Premiership teams continue to play with a white ball?

A Phillips, Morley
FRED'S ANSWER
1) It depends on the competition - In local football the competition normally states two footballs should be given to the referee. At a more higher level of football the competition rules may state more.
 

2) During the game the fourth official supervises the replacement footballs, where requir ed. All footballs would have been checked by the referee prior to the start of the match.
 
c) This is due to an agreement between the competition and the ball manufacturers.
QUESTION (Febl 2004)

"What’s the role of the fourth official ?”

M Crosby, Huddersfield
FRED'S ANSWER
Competition rules state that the fourth official should take over from the referee should he be injured during the game. If the senior assistant takes over from the referee, the fourth official replaces the assistant.
The fourth official assists with any administrative duties before, during and after the match as required by the referee.

He assists with substitutions and supervises the replacement footballs when required. He must indicate to the referee when the wrong player is cautioned due to mistaken identity or when a player is not sent off, having been seen to be given a second caution. He will also notify the referee and assistant referees of any violent conduct that occurs out of their sight. He does this by speaking to the nearest assistant, who then informs the referee. The referee, however, retains the authority to decide what action if any should be taken.
He also controls the behavior of the occupants of the technical area and if necessary reports any irresponsible behavior to the referee.
As you can see from the above, the role of the fourth official has grown since first introduced when they were only there in case one of the other officials got injured. They are now an important part of the team of officials at the higher level of football.
QUESTION (Jan 2004)

In a recent Sunday league match the following occurred:
Our striker shot from 25 yards out, the ball beat the keeper, went in the goal, but hit the back of the framework (inside the goal) and bounced out. 
The linesman at that end of the field was supplied by the defending team and he clearly stated that it was a goal (as did the defenders) and everyone stopped, thinking the goal would stand.  The referee overruled the linesman and waved play-on.
Why can the linesman (all be it not a qualified official) not overrule the referee in these situations?
To make matters worse we lost 2-3 !
Barrie Knight, Seacroft
FRED'S ANSWER
This also happened some years ago at a football league match and neither the assistant referee or the referee saw it !
Now to answer your question, duties of the assistant referee is to INDICATE to the referee when the ball is out of play, if a player may be penalized for being in an offside position and when misconduct or any other incident has occurred out of the view of the referee.

Please note it is to indicate and that the referee, in all cases, will make the final decision. If he decides not to stop play he should acknowledge the assistant and let play continue. 
An assistant (linesman) can never overrule the referee, even if they are qualified! 
QUESTION (Dec 2003)

I attended an F.A. Vase match last season in which the following occurred:

 

As a forward was in the act of shooting at goal, the referee blew for a foul against one of the defenders. When the referee realised that the forward's shot had subsequently gone in, he awarded the goal. Do the rules allow a referee to do this or is this one of those “referee’s discretion” decisions that Clive Thomas was famous for?

 

Tom Hall, Kippax

FRED'S ANSWER

If the referee blows the whistle before the ball has entered the goal, the goal should not be allowed but a free kick should be awarded against the defender.

Had the referee not whistled for the free kick, the goalkeeper may have saved the shot.

 
QUESTION (Nov 2003)
“Both cricket and rugby use video replays to help with important decisions. Could this also work in football?”
 
D Barnes, Bramley

TERRY'S ANSWER
I keep hearing that video replays would be the answer but I’m not so sure.
Take the Watford v Chelsea game the other week when the ball did not cross the goal line but a goal was awarded.   After the game had been stopped and, having,  decided the ball had not crossed the goal line, the game would have to be restarted with a drop ball on the goal area line (six yard box) parallel to the goal line. Would this then be a disadvantage to the attacking side  ?
If play has been stopped for any reason by the referee then video replays may be a good thing,  but,  in my opinion it would spoil the game.    After all,  what would we have to talk about  ?

 

  

 
   

 

     

 

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