R.D.C.Y.F.C. Laws of the Game

The original Laws have changed only marginally over the years.

Today's 17 Laws continue to be based upon the rules that were first ratified by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) when it was founded in 1886.

Changes have occurred in accordance with the specific evolution and demands of modern-day football, but the key element remains of football being seen as essentially a simple game, with laws that can be applied in the same way at any level from the World Cup Final to a friendly game on a local park.

You can read all the laws of the game by clicking on any of the links below. We also give you details of the laws that apply to small-sided football and mini-soccer...

	Law 1 - The Field of Play	Law 10 - The Method of Scoring
	Law 2 - The Ball	Law 11 - Offside
	Law 3 - The Number of Players	Law 12 - Fouls & Misconduct
	Law 4 - The Players' Equipment	Law 13 - Free Kicks
	Law 5 - The Referee	Law 14 - The Penalty Kick
	Law 6 - The Assistant Referees	Law 15 - The Throw-In
	Law 7 - Duration of the Match	Law 16 - The Goal Kick
	Law 8 - The Start & Restart of Play	Law 17 - The Corner Kick
	Law 9 - The Ball In & Out of Play	Laws of Mini-Soccer Small Sided Football
	You can also download a copy of FIFA's Laws of the Game booklet by clicking here...
Laws 1 - The Field of Play Field surface Matches may be played on natural or artificial surfaces, according to the rules of the competition. Dimensions The field of play must be rectangular. The length of the touch line must be greater than the length of the goal line. Length: minimum 90 m (100 yds) maximum 120 m (130 yds) Width: minimum 45 m (50 yds) maximum 90 m (100 yds) International Matches Length: minimum 100 m (110 yds) maximum 110 m (120 yds) Width: minimum 64 m (70 yds) maximum 75 m (80 yds) Field Markings The field of play is marked with lines. These lines belong to the areas of which they are boundaries. The two longer boundary lines are called touch lines. The two shorter lines are called goal lines. All lines are not more than 12 cm (5 ins) wide. The field of play is divided into two halves by a halfway line. The centre mark is indicated at the midpoint of the halfway line. A circle with a radius of 9.15 m (10 yds) is marked around it. The Goal Area A goal area is defined at each end of the field as follows: Two lines are drawn at right angles to the goal line, 5.5 m (6 yds) from the inside of each goalpost. These lines extend into the field of play for a distance of 5.5 m (6 yds) and are joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal line. The area bounded by these lines and the goal line is the goal area. The Penalty Area A penalty area is defi ned at each end of the field as follows: Two lines are drawn at right angles to the goal line, 16.5 m (18 yds) from the inside of each goalpost. These lines extend into the field of play for a distance of 16.5 m (18 yds) and are joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal line. The area bounded by these lines and the goal line is the penalty area. Within each penalty area, a penalty mark is made 11 m (12 yds) from the midpoint between the goalposts and equidistant to them. An arc of a circle with a radius of 9.15 m (10 yds) from each penalty mark is drawn outside the penalty area. Flagposts A fl agpost, not less than 1.5 m (5 ft) high, with a non-pointed top and a fl ag is placed at each corner. Flagposts may also be placed at each end of the halfway line, not less than 1 m (1 yd) outside the touch line. The Corner Arc A quarter circle with a radius of 1 m (1 yd) from each corner flagpost is drawn inside the field of play. Goals Goals must be placed on the centre of each goal line. They consist of two upright posts equidistant from the corner fl agposts and joined at the top by a horizontal crossbar. The distance between the posts is 7.32 m (8 yds) and the distance from the lower edge of the crossbar to the ground is 2.44 m (8 ft). Both goalposts and the crossbar have the same width and depth, which do not exceed 12 cm (5 ins). The goal lines are the same width as that of the goalposts and the crossbar. Nets may be attached to the goals and the ground behind the goal, provided that they are properly supported and do not interfere with the goalkeeper. The goalposts and crossbars must be white. Safety Goals must be anchored securely to the ground. Portable goals may only be used if they satisfy this requirement.
Law 2 - The Ball Qualities and Measurements The ball is: spherical made of leather or other suitable material of a circumference of not more than 70 cm (28 ins) and not less than 68 cm (27 ins) not more than 450 g (16 oz) in weight and not less than 410 g (14 oz) at the start of the match of a pressure equal to 0.6 – 1.1 atmosphere (600 – 1100 g/cm2) at sea level (8.5 lbs/sq in 15.6 lbs/sq in) Replacement of a Defective Ball If the ball bursts or becomes defective during the course of a match: the match is stopped the match is restarted by dropping the replacement ball at the place where the first ball became defective If the ball bursts or becomes defective whilst not in play at a kick-off, goal kick, corner kick, free kick, penalty kick or throw-in: the match is restarted accordingly The ball may not be changed during the match without the authority of the referee.
Law 3 - The Number of Players Players A match is played by two teams, each consisting of not more than eleven players, one of whom is the goalkeeper. A match may not start if either team consists of fewer than seven players. Official Competitions Up to a maximum of three substitutes may be used in any match played in an official competition organised under the auspices of FIFA, the confederations or the member associations. The rules of the competition must state how many substitutes may be nominated, from three up to a maximum of seven. Other Matches In national A team matches, up to a maximum of six substitutes may be used. In all other matches, a greater number of substitutes may be used provided that: The teams concerned reach agreement on a maximum number The referee is informed before the match. If the referee is not informed, or if no agreement is reached before the match, no more than six substitutes are allowed. All Matches In all matches, the names of the substitutes must be given to the referee prior to the start of the match. Substitutes not so named may not take part in the match. Substitution Procedure To replace a player by a substitute, the following conditions must be observed: The referee is informed before any proposed substitution is made A substitute only enters the field of play after the player being replaced has left and after receiving a signal from the referee A substitute only enters the field of play at the halfway line and during a stoppage in the match A substitution is completed when a substitute enters the field of play From that moment, the substitute becomes a player and the player he has replaced ceases to be a player A player who has been replaced takes no further part in the match All substitutes are subject to the authority and jurisdiction of the referee, whether called upon to play or not Changing the Goalkeeper Any of the other players may change places with the goalkeeper, provided that: The referee is informed before the change is made The change is made during a stoppage in the match Infringements/Sanctions If a substitute enters the field of play without the referee’s permission: • play is stopped The substitute is cautioned, shown the yellow card and required to leave the field of play Play is restarted with an indirect free kick at the place the ball was located when play was stopped If a player changes places with the goalkeeper without the referee’s permission before the change is made: Play continues The players concerned are cautioned and shown the yellow card when the ball is next out of play For any other infringements of this Law: The players concerned are cautioned and shown the yellow card Restart of Play If play is stopped by the referee to administer a caution: • the match is restarted by an indirect free kick, to be taken by a player of the opposing team from the place where the ball was located when play was stopped Players and Substitutes Sent Off A player who has been sent off before the kick-off may be replaced only by one of the named substitutes. A named substitute who has been sent off, either before the kick-off or after play has started, may not be replaced.
Law 4 - The Players Equipment Safety A player must not use equipment or wear anything that is dangerous to himself or another player (including any kind of jewellery). Basic Equipment The basic compulsory equipment of a player comprises the following separate items: a jersey or shirt shorts – if thermal undershorts are worn, they are of the same main colour as the shorts stockings shinguards footwear Shinguards are covered entirely by the stockings are made of a suitable material (rubber, plastic, or similar substances) provide a reasonable degree of protection Goalkeepers each goalkeeper wears colours that distinguish him from the other players, the referee and the assistant referees Infringements/Sanctions For any infringement of this Law: play need not be stopped the player at fault is instructed by the referee to leave the field of play to correct his equipment the player leaves the field of play when the ball next ceases to be in play, unless he has already corrected his equipment any player required to leave the field of play to correct his equipment does not re-enter without the referee’s permission the referee checks that the player’s equipment is correct before allowing him to re-enter the fi eld of play the player is only allowed to re-enter the field of play when the ball is out of play A player who has been required to leave the field of play because of an infringement of this Law and who enters (or re-enters) the field of play without the referee’s permission is cautioned and shown the yellow card. Restart of Play If play is stopped by the referee to administer a caution: the match is restarted by an indirect free kick taken by a player of the opposing side, from the place where the ball was located when the referee stopped the match
Law 5 - The Referee The Authority of the Referee Each match is controlled by a referee who has full authority to enforce the Laws of the Game in connection with the match to which he has been appointed. Powers and Duties The Referee: enforces the Laws of the Game controls the match in co-operation with the assistant referees and, where applicable, with the fourth official ensures that any ball used meets the requirements of Law 2 ensures that the players’ equipment meets the requirements of Law 4 acts as timekeeper and keeps a record of the match stops, suspends or terminates the match, at his discretion, for any infringements of the Laws stops, suspends or terminates the match because of outside interference of any kind stops the match if, in his opinion, a player is seriously injured and ensures that he is removed from the field of play. An injured player may only return to the field of play after the match has restarted allows play to continue until the ball is out of play if a player is, in his opinion, only slightly injured ensures that any player bleeding from a wound leaves the field of play. The player may only return on receiving a signal from the referee, who must be satisfi ed that the bleeding has stopped allows play to continue when the team against which an offence has been committed will benefit from such an advantage and penalises the original offence if the anticipated advantage does not ensue at that time punishes the more serious offence when a player commits more than one offence at the same time takes disciplinary action against players guilty of cautionable and sending-off offences. He is not obliged to take this action immediately but must do so when the ball next goes out of play takes action against team offi cials who fail to conduct themselves in a responsible manner and may, at his discretion, expel them from the field of play and its immediate surrounds acts on the advice of assistant referees regarding incidents that he has not seen ensures that no unauthorised persons enter the field of play restarts the match after it has been stopped provides the appropriate authorities with a match report, which includes information on any disciplinary action taken against players, and/or team officials and any other incidents that occurred before, during or after the match Decisions of the Referee The decisions of the referee regarding facts connected with play are final. The referee may only change a decision on realising that it is incorrect or, at his discretion, on the advice of an assistant referee, provided that he has not restarted play or terminated the match
Law 6 - The Assistant Referees Duties Two assistant referees are appointed whose duties, subject to the decision of the referee, are to indicate: when the whole of the ball has passed out of the field of play which side is entitled to a corner kick, goal kick or throw-in when a player may be penalised for being in an offside position when a substitution is requested when misconduct or any other incident has occurred out of the view of the referee when offences have been committed whenever the assistants are closer to the action than the referee (this includes, in particular circumstances, offences committed in the penalty area) whether, at penalty kicks, the goalkeeper has moved forward before the ball has been kicked and if the ball has crossed the line Assistance The assistant referees also assist the referee to control the match in accordance with the Laws of the Game. In particular, they may enter the field of play to help control the 9.15m distance. In the event of undue interference or improper conduct, the referee will relieve an assistant referee of his duties and make a report to the appropriate authorities.
Law 7 - Duration of the Match Periods of Play The match lasts two equal periods of 45 minutes, unless otherwise mutually agreed between the referee and the two participating teams. Any agreement to alter the periods of play (for example to reduce each half to 40 minutes because of insuffi cient light) must be made before the start of play and must comply with competition rules. Half-Time Interval Players are entitled to an interval at half-time. The half-time interval must not exceed 15 minutes. Competition rules must state the duration of the half-time interval. The duration of the half-time interval may be altered only with the consent of the referee. Allowance for Time Lost Allowance is made in either period for all time lost through: substitution(s) assessment of injury to players removal of injured players from the fi eld of play for treatment wasting time any other cause The allowance for time lost is at the discretion of the referee. Penalty Kick If a penalty kick has to be taken or retaken, the duration of either half is extended until the penalty kick is completed. Abandoned Match An abandoned match is replayed unless the competition rules provide otherwise.
Law 8 - The Start & Restart of Play Preliminaries A coin is tossed and the team that wins the toss decides which goal it will attack in the first half of the match. The other team takes the kick-off to start the match. The team that wins the toss takes the kick-off to start the second half of the match. In the second half of the match, the teams change ends and attack the opposite goals. Kick-off A kick-off is a way of starting or restarting play: at the start of the match after a goal has been scored at the start of the second half of the match at the start of each period of extra time, where applicable A goal may be scored directly from the kick-off. Procedure all players are in their own half of the field the opponents of the team taking the kick-off are at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball until it is in play the ball is stationary on the centre mark the referee gives a signal the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward the kicker does not touch the ball a second time until it has touched another player After a team scores a goal, the kick-off is taken by the other team. Infringements/Sanctions If the kicker touches the ball a second time before it has touched another player: an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred For any other infringement of the kick-off procedure: the kick-off is retaken Dropped Ball A dropped ball is a way of restarting the match after a temporary stoppage that becomes necessary, while the ball is in play, for any reason not mentioned elsewhere in the Laws of the Game. Procedure The referee drops the ball at the place where it was located when play was stopped. Play restarts when the ball touches the ground. Infringements/Sanctions The ball is dropped again: if it is touched by a player before it makes contact with the ground if the ball leaves the field of play after it makes contact with the ground, without a player touching it Special Circumstances A free kick awarded to the defending team inside its own goal area is taken from any point within the goal area. An indirect free kick awarded to the attacking team in its opponents’ goal area is taken from the goal area line parallel to the goal line at the point nearest to where the infringement occurred. A dropped ball to restart the match after play has been temporarily stopped inside the goal area takes place on the goal area line parallel to the goal line at the point nearest to where the ball was located when play was stopped.
Law 9 - The Ball In & Out of Play Ball Out of Play The ball is out of play when: it has wholly crossed the goal line or touch line whether on the ground or in the air play has been stopped by the referee Ball In Play The ball is in play at all other times, including when: it rebounds from a goalpost, crossbar or corner flagpost and remains in the field of play it rebounds from either the referee or an assistant referee when they are on the field of play
Law 10 - The Method of Scoring Goal Scored A goal is scored when the whole of the ball passes over the goal line, between the goalposts and under the crossbar, provided that no infringement of the Laws of the Game has been committed previously by the team scoring the goal. Winning Team The team scoring the greater number of goals during a match is the winner. If both teams score an equal number of goals, or if no goals are scored, the match is drawn. Competition Rules When competition rules require there to be a winning team after a match or home-and-away tie, only the following procedures, which have been approved by the International FA Board, are permitted Away goals rule Extra time Kicks from the penalty mark
Law 11 - Offside Offside Position It is not an offence in itself to be in an offside position. A player is in an offside position if: he is nearer to his opponents’ goal line than both the ball and the second last opponent A player is not in an offside position if: he is in his own half of the fi eld of play or he is level with the second last opponent or he is level with the last two opponents Offence A player in an offside position is only penalised if, at the moment the ball touches or is played by one of his team, he is, in the opinion of the referee, involved in active play by: interfering with play or interfering with an opponent or gaining an advantage by being in that position No Offence There is no offside offence if a player receives the ball directly from: a goal kick or a throw-in or a corner kick Infringements/Sanctions For any offside offence, the referee awards an indirect free kick to the opposing team to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred.
Law 12 - Fouls & Misconduct Fouls and misconduct are penalised as follows: 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 trips or attempts to trip an opponent jumps at an opponent charges an opponent strikes or attempts to strike an opponent pushes an opponent A direct free kick is also awarded to the opposing team if a player commits any of the following four offences: tackles an opponent to gain possession of the ball, making contact with the opponent before touching the ball holds an opponent spits at an opponent handles the ball deliberately (except for the goalkeeper within his own penalty area) A direct free kick is taken from where the offence occurred. Penalty Kick A penalty kick is awarded if any of the above ten offences is committed by a player inside his own penalty area, irrespective of the position of the ball, provided it is in play. Indirect Free Kick An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a goalkeeper, inside his own penalty area, commits any of the following four offences: takes more than six seconds while controlling the ball with his hands before releasing it from his possession touches the ball again with his hands after it has been released from his possession and has not touched any other player touches the ball with his hands after it has been deliberately kicked to him by a team-mate touches the ball with his hands after he has received it directly from a throw-in taken by a team-mate An indirect free kick is also awarded to the opposing team if a player, in the opinion of the referee: plays in a dangerous manner impedes the progress of an opponent prevents the goalkeeper from releasing the ball from his hands commits any other offence, not previously mentioned in Law 12, for which play is stopped to caution or dismiss a player The indirect free kick is taken from where the offence occurred. Disciplinary Sanctions Only a player or substitute or substituted player may be shown the red or yellow card. The referee has the authority to take disciplinary sanctions, as from the moment he enters the field of play until he leaves the field of play after the final whistle. Cautionable Offences A player is cautioned and shown the yellow card if he commits any of the following seven offences: is guilty of unsporting behaviour shows dissent by word or action persistently infringes the Laws of the Game delays the restart of play fails to respect the required distance when play is restarted with a corner kick, free kick or throw-in enters or re-enters the field of play without the referee’s permission deliberately leaves the field of play without the referee’s permission A substitute or substituted player is cautioned and shown the yellow card if he commits any of the following three offences: is guilty of unsporting behaviour shows dissent by word or action delays the restart of play Sending-Off Offences A player, substitute or substituted player is sent off and shown the red card if he commits any of the following seven offences: is guilty of serious foul play is guilty of violent conduct spits at an opponent or any other person denies the opposing team a goal or an obvious goalscoring opportunity by deliberately handling the ball (this does not apply to a goalkeeper within his own penalty area) denies an obvious goalscoring opportunity to an opponent moving towards the player’s goal by an offence punishable by a free kick or a penalty kick uses offensive or insulting or abusive language and/or gestures receives a second caution in the same match A player, substitute or substituted player who has been sent off and shown the red card must leave the vicinity of the field of play and the technical area.
Law 13 - Free Kicks Types of Free Kicks Free kicks are either direct or indirect. For both direct and indirect free kicks, the ball must be stationary when the kick is taken and the kicker does not touch the ball a second time until it has touched another player. The Direct Free Kick if a direct free kick is kicked directly into the opponents’ goal, a goal is awarded if a direct free kick is kicked directly into the team’s own goal, a corner kick is awarded to the opposing team The Indirect Free Kick Signal The referee indicates an indirect free kick by raising his arm above his head. He maintains his arm in that position until the kick has been taken and the ball has touched another player or goes out of play. Ball Enters the Goal A goal can be scored only if the ball subsequently touches another player before it enters the goal. if an indirect free kick is kicked directly into the opponents’ goal, a goal kick is awarded if an indirect free kick is kicked directly into the team’s own goal, a corner kick is awarded to the opposing team Position of Free Kick Free Kick Inside the Penalty Area Direct or indirect free kick to the defending team: all opponents are at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball all opponents remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play the ball is in play when it is kicked directly beyond the penalty area a free kick awarded in the goal area is taken from any point inside that area Indirect free kick to the attacking team: all opponents are at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball until it is in play, unless they are on their own goal line between the goalposts the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves an indirect free kick awarded inside the goal area is taken from that part of the goal area line which runs parallel to the goal line, at the point nearest to where the infringement occurred Free Kick Outside the Penalty Area all opponents are at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball until it is in play the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves the free kick is taken from the place where the infringement occurred Infringements/Sanctions If, when a free kick is taken, an opponent is closer to the ball than the required distance: the kick is retaken If, when a free kick is taken by the defending team from inside its own penalty area, the ball is not kicked directly into play: the kick is retaken Free kick taken by a player other than the goalkeeper If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player: an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred If, after the ball is in play, the kicker deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player: a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred a penalty kick is awarded if the infringement occurred inside the kicker’s penalty area Free kick taken by the goalkeeper If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper touches the ball a second time (except with his hands), before it has touched another player: an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player: a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred outside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred inside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred
Law 14 - The Penalty Kick A penalty kick is awarded against a team that commits one of the ten offences for which a direct free kick is awarded, inside its own penalty area and while the ball is in play. A goal may be scored directly from a penalty kick. Additional time is allowed for a penalty kick to be taken at the end of each half or at the end of periods of extra time. Position of the Ball and the Players The ball: is placed on the penalty mark The player taking the penalty kick: is properly identified The defending goalkeeper: remains on his goal line, facing the kicker, between the goalposts until the ball has been kicked The players other than the kicker are located: inside the field of play outside the penalty area behind the penalty mark at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the penalty mark The Referee does not signal for a penalty kick to be taken until the players have taken up position in accordance with the Law decides when a penalty kick has been completed Procedure the player taking the penalty kicks the ball forward he does not play the ball a second time until it has touched another player the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward When a penalty kick is taken during the normal course of play, or time has been extended at half-time or full time to allow a penalty kick to be taken or retaken, a goal is awarded if, before passing between the goalposts and under the crossbar: the ball touches either or both of the goalposts and/or the crossbar, and/or the goalkeeper Infringements/Sanctions If the referee gives the signal for a penalty kick to be taken and, before the ball is in play, one of the following situations occurs: The player taking the penalty kick infringes the Laws of the Game: the referee allows the kick to proceed if the ball enters the goal, the kick is retaken if the ball does not enter the goal, the referee stops play and restarts the match with an indirect free kick to the defending team, from the place where the infringement occurred. The goalkeeper infringes the Laws of the Game: the referee allows the kick to proceed if the ball enters the goal, a goal is awarded if the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is retaken. A team-mate of the player taking the kick infringes the Laws of the Game: the referee allows the kick to proceed if the ball enters the goal, the kick is retaken if the ball does not enter the goal, the referee stops play and restarts the match with an indirect free kick to the defending team, from the place where the infringement occurred. A team-mate of the goalkeeper infringes the Laws of the Game: the referee allows the kick to proceed if the ball enters the goal, a goal is awarded if the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is retaken A player of both the defending team and the attacking team infringe the Laws of the Game: the kick is retaken If, after the penalty kick has been taken: The kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player: an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred The kicker deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player: a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred The ball is touched by an outside agent as it moves forward: the kick is retaken The ball rebounds into the field of play from the goalkeeper, the crossbar or the goalposts, and is then touched by an outside agent: the referee stops play play is restarted with a dropped ball at the place where it touched the outside agent
Law 15 - The Throw-In A throw-in is a method of restarting play. A goal cannot be scored directly from a throw-in. A throw-in is awarded: when the whole of the ball passes over the touch line, either on the ground or in the air from the point where it crossed the touch line to the opponents of the player who last touched the ball Procedure At the moment of delivering the ball, the thrower: faces the field of play has part of each foot either on the touch line or on the ground outside the touch line uses both hands delivers the ball from behind and over his head The thrower may not touch the ball again until it has touched another player. All opponents must stand no less than 2 meters from the point at which the throw-in is taken. The ball is in play immediately after it enters the field of play. Infringements/Sanctions Throw-in taken by a player other than the goalkeeper If, after the ball is in play, the thrower touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player: an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred If, after the ball is in play, the thrower deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player: a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred a penalty kick is awarded if the infringement occurred inside the thrower’s penalty area Throw-in taken by the goalkeeper If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper touches the ball a second time (except with his hands), before it has touched another player: an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player: a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred outside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred inside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred If an opponent unfairly distracts or impedes the thrower: he is cautioned for unsporting behaviour and shown the yellow card For any other infringement of this Law: the throw-in is taken by a player of the opposing team
Law 16 - The Goal Kick A goal kick is a method of restarting play. A goal may be scored directly from a goal kick, but only against the opposing team. A goal kick is awarded when: the whole of the ball, having last touched a player of the attacking team, passes over the goal line, either on the ground or in the air, and a goal is not scored in accordance with Law 10 Procedure the ball is kicked from any point within the goal area by a player of the defending team opponents remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play the kicker does not play the ball a second time until it has touched another player the ball is in play when it is kicked directly beyond the penalty area Infringements/Sanctions If the ball is not kicked directly into play beyond the penalty area: the kick is retaken Goal kick taken by a player other than the goalkeeper If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player: an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred If, after the ball is in play, the kicker deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player: a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred a penalty kick is awarded if the infringement occurred inside the kicker’s penalty area Goal kick taken by the goalkeeper If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player: an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player: a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred outside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred inside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred For any other infringement of this Law: the kick is retaken
Law 17 - The Corner Kick A corner kick is a method of restarting play. A goal may be scored directly from a corner kick, but only against the opposing team. A corner kick is awarded when: the whole of the ball, having last touched a player of the defending team, passes over the goal line, either on the ground or in the air, and a goal is not scored in accordance with Law 10 Procedure the ball is placed inside the corner arc at the nearest corner flagpost the corner flagpost is not moved opponents remain at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the corner arc until the ball is in play the ball is kicked by a player of the attacking team the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves the kicker does not play the ball a second time until it has touched another player Infringements/Sanctions Corner kick taken by a player other than the goalkeeper If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player: an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred If, after the ball is in play, the kicker deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player: a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred a penalty kick is awarded if the infringement occurred inside the kicker’s penalty area Corner kick taken by the goalkeeper If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper touches the ball a second time (except with his hands) before it has touched another player: an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another player: a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred outside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement occurred inside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred For any other infringement: the kick is retaken
The Laws of Mini-Soccer "The Best Introduction to the World's Greatest Game" September 1999 saw the implementation of Mini-Soccer for all children under 10 years of age. As a result of nearly three years consultation and co-operation between all bodies involved with children's football, boys and girls are now introduced to the game on smaller pitches with scaled down goal posts and fewer players. In attempting to provide quality experiences for all young players at all levels, The Football Association deems Mini-Soccer the most appropriate and fun introduction to football. It allows greater involvement in the game, with more touches, dribbles and passes. Over the coming three years, the aim is to implement the Football Association County Mini-Soccer Plans with millions of pounds being available through partnerships including The Football Association, Sport England, Coca-Cola Great Britain, Local Authorities, County FA's, Schools and Clubs. Mini-Soccer : Meeting the Needs of Children "The Children are more important than the activities in which they are engaged. The game is not the thing, the child is. Physical Education for ages 5-16 (Department of Education and Science, August 1991)." The main theme throughout Mini-Soccer is to meet the needs of children. Eleven-a-side Association Football does not meet those needs. We need a modified game that fits the needs of children: too often children are modified to meet the requirements of a game. Mini-Soccer modifies Association Football without losing the essence of the game. Mini-Soccer is the appropriate introduction to football. All available research and observation shows that children will have more fun and learn more playing a game with smaller teams and modified rules. Mini-Soccer is, therefore, a game children can actually play rather than struggling to understand a game created for adults. If children are to enjoy and take part in soccer they need to: Feel success Take an active part in the game Learn to play as a team Understand the Laws Develop soccer skills Be able to take part whatever their ability Develop fitness Mini-Soccer sets out to meet those needs. It is a game which has been modified from 11-a-side Association Football which keeps all the major features of the game, while allowing children to succeed and take part in something that is still recognisably football. Mini-Soccer recognises the fact that younger children perform better in smaller teams with simple Laws. It also sets out to give children fun. Mini-Soccer, however, is more than another version of 5-or 6-a-side football for the following reasons: 1. It recognises that children do not perform as adults and therefore its Laws, researched and piloted by The Football Association, meet the needs of children. 2. It has all the features of 'real' football to children. 3. It doesn't set unrealistic expectations. Many adults do not know what can be expected of children and so emphasise the result at the expense of performance. Mini-Soccer helps by defining the targets for children at different ages. 4. It sets a standard and a framework for behaviour on and off the pitch which has already been established by other Football Association schemes such as Funweeks, Coaching Centres and the Soccer Star Challenge. 5. Mini-Soccer is for all youngsters regardless of their ability. It is intended for girls and boys, and young footballers with disabilities and learning difficulties. In an age when so much of children's leisure time is as organised as their study, Mini-Soccer offers something special: a game that children can organise themselves! With relatively little instruction children can play and enjoy a game which is suitable for a wide ability range and gives everyone a chance to take part. If you find this hard to believe, just set up a game with some children and WATCH! Guidance for the Laws of Mini-Soccer The Laws have been piloted and aim to be simple and as near to _real' football as possible. The games require only a _game leader' who is urged to be as flexible as possible with the youngest children. The children will need the Laws explained to them as the game proceeds (e.g. handball, in/out of play.) It will also be necessary to demonstrate in certain instances how to re-start the game (e.g. throw-ins, corner kicks.) What can children expect from Adults? Remember that children are often easily led, anxious to please and prone to over-enthusiasm, and so plenty of praise and positive reinforcement is needed _ especially with beginners. Children find it hard to understand negative instructions and easier to understand positive reinforcement and this can frequently mean playing down the result and playing up the performance. This reduces the child's anxiety and decreases their worry about failing. Remember that children do not mean to make mistakes; we should accept mistakes as a necessary part of learning. Make sure the players play by the Laws. The majority of children at these ages will not knowingly infringe the Laws of the Game. Finally, work with other adults, not against them, and by so doing reinforce positive attitudes among the children. Interference from the Touch Line Whilst the fun and friendly atmosphere created by Mini-Soccer should keep such instances to a minimum, there may be situations which arise where comments and abuse from adults, parents and Managers is made from the touch line. This could be directed at the Referee, but also at the players. What can be done? Stay calm; don't get into disagreement; report the matter to relevant club or league officials; set a positive responsible example. Referees _ Mini-Soccer Game Leaders The Referee will have an important role to play in Mini-Soccer. Carrying out their duties without favour they should look to create a playing environment which is fun for all taking part. The Referee should encourage fair play, fun, respect for others, development of skills and team work, understanding of the Laws of the Game. The Laws of the Game should be a guide for the Referee in Mini-Soccer with the spirit of the laws being more important than the letters of the law. Appreciation of the needs of the child are essential. FOR PLAYERS (BOTH BOYS AND GIRLS OVER THE AGE OF 6 AND UNDER 10) Please note : Where Leagues operate Under 11 Mini-Soccer events, they must follow these Laws Except where other provision, in these Laws are made, the Laws of Association Football apply. Each Law is numbered to correspond with the appropriate Law of the Game. These Laws are mandatory unless special permission is granted by The Football Association. LAW 1. Playing Area Please see the F.A. Rule book for a diagram of the Playing Area. Recommended Size of Pitch Under 10's/9's Under 8's/7's Width Metres Yards Metres Yards Min. 27.45 Min. 30 Min. 18.30 Min. 20 Max. 36.60 Max. 40 Max. 27.45 Max. 30 Length Min. 45.75 Min. 50 Min. 27.45 Min. 30 Max .54.90 Max. 60 Max. 45.75 Max. 50 Penalty Area Length 9.15m - 10 yards Width 16.47m - 18 yards Penalty Mark The penalty mark is 7.32m (8 yards) from the Goal Line opposite the Centre of the Goal. Halfway Line The field of play is divided into two halves by a halfway line. The centre mark is indicated at the mid-point of the halfway line. LAW 1. Goal Size The distance between the posts is 3.6m (12ft) and the distance between the lower edge of the cross bar and the ground is 1.88m (6ft). Warning In view of a number of accidents that have occurred, it is necessary to ensure that portable goals of any size are either pinned or weighted to prevent them from toppling forward. LAW 2. The Ball The ball should be no larger than size 4. Size 3 is recommended for Under 8's. It should be safe and made of leather or another suitable material. LAW 3. Number of Players Number per Team Including Goalkeeper Over 6 4 v 4 and and Under 8's 5 v 5 Over 8 6 v 6 and and Under 10's 7 v 7 Players must play with and against players only from their own age range _ within a two year age band. Players should not be allowed to begin to play until the Season of their 7th birthday. Each team must not have a squad greater than double the size of the team per age. Any number of substitutes, without being named, may be used at any time with the permission of the referee or game leader. Entry into the field of play will only be allowed during a stoppage in play. A player who has been replaced may return to the playing area as a substitute for another player. LAW 4. Playing Equipment Players must wear shinguards and goalkeepers must wear a distinguishing playing strip. Shinguards must be covered entirely by the stockings. LAW 5. Referee's The Authority of the Referee Each match is controlled by a referee who has full authority to enforce the Laws of the Game in connection with the match to which they have been appointed. Powers and Duties The Referee: Enforces the Laws of the Game Controls the match in co-operation with the assistant referees / time keeper Ensures that the ball meets the requirements of Law 2 Ensures that the players' equipment meets the requirements of Law 4 Stops, suspends or terminates the match, at their discretion, for any infringements of the Laws Stops, suspends or terminates the match because of outside interference of any kind Stops the match if, in their opinion, a player is seriously injured and ensures that they are removed from the field of play Ensures that any player bleeding from a wound leaves the field of play Allows play to continue when the team against which an offence has been committed will benefit from such an advantage and penalises the original offence if the anticipated advantage does not ensue at that time Takes disciplinary action against players guilty of cautionable and/or sending-off offences. Takes action against team officials who fail to conduct themselves in a responsible manner and may, at their discretion, expel them from the field of play and its immediate surrounds Ensures that no unauthorised persons enter the field of play Restarts the match after it has been stopped Decisions of the Referee The decisions of the referee regarding facts connected with play are final. The referee may only change a decision on realising that it is incorrect or, at his/her discretion provided that play has not restarted. LAW 6. Timekeeper/Scorer/Assistant Referee Duties A person may be nominated to assist the referee to: - (a) Record goals scored; (b) Act as timekeeper and signify to the referee by an agreed signal when the time of each half has expired; (c) Suspend time on an instruction from the referee for all stoppages and add that time to the end of each half; (d) Supervise the use of rolling substitutes. (e) Carry out any other duties as prescribed by the referee; If an independent timekeeper/scorer is not nominated, these duties are the responsibility of the referee. LAW 7. Duration of Game In any one day, no player shall play more than the stipulated period outlined below. Within this maximum the recommended duration of games is provided. Recommended Number of Minutes each half Maximum duration of participation per day per player Over 6 and Under 8 10 minutes 45 minutes Over 8 and Under 10 15 minutes 60 minutes Each league/competition will determine its own playing time within the maximum time permitted. The half time interval must not exceed 5 minutes. LAW 8. Start and Restart of Play Procedure A kick-off is taken at the centre of the playing area to start the game and after a goal has been scored, opponents must be 4.5m (5 yards) away from the ball, and in their own half of the field. The ball must be played forward. Special Circumstances A dropped ball to restart the match after play has been temporarily stopped inside the penalty area takes place on the penalty area line parallel to the goal line at that point nearest to where the ball was located when the play stopped. LAW 9. Ball in and out of Play Ball Out of Play The ball is out of play when: It has wholly crossed the goal line or touch line whether on the ground or in the air Play has been stopped by the referee Ball in Play The ball is in play at all other times, including when: It rebounds from a goal post, crossbar or corner flag post and remains in the field of play It rebounds from either the referee or an assistant referee when they are on the field of play LAW 10. Method of Scoring Goal Scored A goal is scored when the whole of the ball passes over the goal line, between the goalposts and under the crossbar, provided that no infringement of the Laws of the Game has been committed previously by the team scoring the goal. Winning Team The team scoring the greater number of goals during a match is the winner. If both teams score an equal number of goals, or if no goals are scored, the match is drawn. Competition Rules For matches ending in a draw, competition rules may state provisions involving extra time, or other procedures approved by the International F.A. Board to determine the winner of a match. Please note this must be included within the maximum participation time. LAW 11. Offside There is no offside. LAW 12. Fouls and Misconduct In Mini Soccer all free kicks are direct. A free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player commits any of the following offences in a manner considered to be careless, reckless or using excessive force: Kicks or attempts to kick an opponent Trips or attempts to trip an opponent Jumps at an opponent Charges an opponent Strikes or attempts to strike an opponent Pushes an opponent A free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player commits any of the following offences: Tackles an opponent to gain possession of the ball, making contact with the opponent before touching the ball Holds an opponent Spits at an opponent Handles the ball deliberately (except for the goalkeeper within his/her own penalty area) Plays in a dangerous manner Impedes the progress of an opponent Prevents the goalkeeper from releasing the ball from his/her hands Commits any other offence, not previously mentioned in Law 12, for which play is stopped to caution or dismiss a player Penalty Kick A penalty kick is awarded if any of the above offences is committed by a player inside his/her own penalty area, irrespective of the position of the ball, provided it is in play. A free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the goalkeeper: Takes more than 6 seconds to release the ball from his/her hands Touches the ball again with his/her hands after it has been released from his/her possession and has not touched any other player Touches the ball with his/her hands after it has been deliberately kicked to him/her by a team mate Touches the ball with his/her hands after he/she has received it directly from a throw in taken by a team mate For all of these offences, the free kick should be taken from the penalty area line, parallel with the goal line, at the nearest point to the offence. Cautionable Offences A player is cautioned and shown the yellow card if he/she commits any of the following seven offences: 1. Is guilty of unsporting behaviour 2. Shows dissent by word or action 3. Persistently infringes the Laws of the Game 4. Delays the restart of play 5. Fails to respect the required distance when play is restarted with a corner kick or free kick 6. Enters or re-enters the field of play without the referee's permission 7. Deliberately leaves the field of play without the referee's permission Sending Off Offences A player is sent off and shown the red card if he/she commits any of the following seven offences: Is guilty of serious foul play Is guilty of violent conduct Spits at an opponent or any other person Denies the opposing team a goal or an obvious goal scoring opportunity, by deliberately handling the ball (this does not apply to a goalkeeper within his/her own penalty area) Denies an obvious goal-scoring opportunity to an opponent moving towards the player's goal by an offence punishable by a free kick or a penalty kick Uses offensive or insulting or abusive language and/or gestures Receives a second caution in the same match LAW 13. Free Kicks For all free kicks opponents must be 4.5m (5 yards) from the ball. LAW 14. Penalty Kicks A penalty kick is awarded for offences, as described in Law 12. Position of the Ball and the Players All players except the defending goalkeeper and kicker must be outside the penalty area and at least 4.5m (5 yards) from the penalty mark. The ball must be kicked forward. Infringement/Sanctions If a player or players commit an offence at the taking of a penalty kick his/her team shall not be allowed to gain an advantage (i.e. the kick is retaken or the goal is disallowed depending on which team offended). If a player of both the defending and the attacking teams offend, the kick shall be retaken. LAW 15. Throw-in A goal cannot be scored directly from a throw-in. A throw-in is awarded: When the whole of the ball passes over the touch line, either on the ground or in the air From the point where it crossed the touch line To the opponents of the player who last touched the ball Procedure At the moment of delivering the ball, the thrower: Faces the field of play Has part of each foot either on the touch line or on the ground outside the touch line Uses both hands The throw-in is awarded to the opposing team, if any of these requirements are not carried out Delivers the ball from behind and over their head The thrower may not touch the ball again until it has touched another player. If he / she does a free kick will be awarded against them. The ball is in play immediately it enters the field of play. LAW 16. Goal Kick Procedure A player of the defending team kicks the ball from any point within the penalty area. Opponents must remain outside the penalty area and at least 5 yards (4.5m) from where the kick is taken until the ball is in play. LAW 17. Corner Kicks The opposing players must remain at least 4.5m (5 yards) from the ball until it is play. The kicker may not touch the ball again until it has touched another player. If he / she does a free kick is awarded against them. The ball is in play immediately it enters the field of play.

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