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Law #14		Law #14 Extra
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The Penalty Kick

A penalty kick is awarded against a team, which 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 kick is not retaken

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 enters the penalty area or moves in front of or within 9.5 m (10 yds) of the penalty mark:

- 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 kick is not retaken

A team-mate of the goalkeeper enters the penalty area or moves in front of or within 9.15 m (10 yds) of the penalty mark:

- 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

To recognize a correctly taken... Penalty Kick
&
To know how to deal with the possible infringements.

PK ~ Introduction: Position of the Ball and the Players: THE MADRID RULE ~ What is it? PENALTY MARK/SPOT SIZE? The Referee: Position of the Referee and Assistant Referees The Procedure: Infringements/Sanctions: If the Goalkeeper infringes the Laws of the Game: RESTART MATRIX

PK ~ Introduction:

Apart from a few important additional rules - a 'Penalty Kick' is essentially a direct free kick taken from the penalty spot. There is nothing very complicated about the procedure for taking penalty kicks. Nevertheless - the outcome of a penalty kick can have a decisive effect on the outcome of a match, and will effect how players will respond during the remainder of the match. It is therefore vital that the Referee adheres to all the stipulations concerned with the taking of a penalty kick.

Penalty kicks are one of the most dramatic events in a game of football (soccer). They can also be one of the most nerve-wracking occasions.

A penalty kick is awarded if any of the direct free kick offences is committed by a player inside his own penalty area, irrespective of the position of the ball, provided it is in play. For example, if the ball is in play within the center circle, and a goalkeeper who is in his own penalty area thumps an opponent, a penalty must be awarded to the opponent's team.

The main differences between a penalty kick and a direct free kick are as follows:

- (a) The defending players are not permitted to form a defensive wall.

- (b) The ball must be touched and moved forward before it is deemed to be in play.

- (c) The goalkeeper must remain on his goal line until the ball is touched and moves forward.

- (d) All players (apart from the penalty taker and the goalkeeper) must be outside of the penalty area and the penalty circle, and behind the ball, and must remain there until the ball is touched and moves forward.

- (e) The penalty kick must not take place until the Referee has clearly indicated.

- (f) 'Extended' time is allowed at the end of each half period, to allow a penalty to take place.

- (g) The penalty kick is always taken from the penalty spot, and not from where the incident occurred within the penalty area

- (h) The person taking the penalty kick must be identified to the Referee an to the goalkeeper.

When the defending team commits a penal foul punishable by a direct free kick within its own penalty area, then the Referee must award a penalty kick. The severity or seriousness of the foul, the score of the game, the amount of time remaining in the period of play, the direction play was moving, the likelihood of a goal being scored, or any factor in play is irrelevant. The ball must also be in-play, before a penalty kick can be awarded.

The lines of the penalty area are part of that penalty area; any penal foul committed by a defending player on the line itself is therefore a penalty.

It is the location of the foul, and not the position of the ball when the foul occurs that determines whether a penalty kick should be awarded or not. The ball must also be in play.

Examples:

- (a) A ball is passed forward into the penalty area by an attacker. The attacker then runs past the defender. The defender purposefully trips the attacker who is moving towards the penalty area - contact with the attacker's ankle was made just outside the defender's penalty area. The attacker falls forward into the penalty area. Because contact was made outside the penalty area, the result is a direct free kick awarded to the attacker's team.

- (b) The defending goalkeeper - who is standing in his goal area - pumps the ball towards the center circle, and then decides to thump an innocent attacker who is standing in close proximity and within the penalty area. The result is a penalty to the attacking side, (after the goalkeeper has been sent-off). Even though the ball was near the center circle at the time of the incident, the sending-off incident occurred within the goalkeeper's penalty area - therefore a penalty kick must be awarded.

- (c) You cannot award a penalty if whilst the ball has left the field of play for a throw in, a defender in his own penalty area spits at an attacker. Play should be restarted with the original throw-in (after the defender has been sent-off).

- (d) After kicking the ball up field and out of his penalty area, the defender then kicks the leg of a retreating attacker who was standing inside defender's penalty area. The result is a penalty awarded to the attacker, because the ball was still in play, and the foul took place in the defender's penalty area.

A penalty kick is awarded against a team that commits one of the penal offences for which a direct free kick is awarded, inside its own penalty area and while the ball is still in play.

A goal may be scored directly or indirectly from a penalty kick.

Additional "extended" time is allowed for a penalty kick to be taken at the end of each half or at the end of any periods of extra time. As soon as a goal has been scored in "extended" time, the half is over.

Position of the Ball and the Players:

The ball:

- Must be placed directly on the penalty mark

The ball must be placed exactly on the penalty mark, regardless of the state of the pitch. Moving the ball to a slightly different position, even with the apparent agreement of both teams should not be permitted. But I do believe in a modicum of common sense here: If Team 'A' are winning 10 - 0, and the losing Team 'B' is awarded a penalty in the last minute of the game - does it really matter if the penalty taker moves the ball a couple of inches to one side, because the penalty spot has disappeared under an inch of water?

The player taking the penalty kick:

- Must be properly identified to the Referee and the defending Goalkeeper

This prevents any 'gamesmanship' occurring, when a player could place the ball on the penalty spot, turn his back as if to walk to his starting position, and then a colleague quickly runs up and kicks the ball towards goal. The Referee should ensure that the goalkeeper knows exactly who is taking the penalty kick.

The defending goalkeeper:

- Must remain on his goal line, facing the kicker, between the goal posts until the ball has been kicked and moves forward

The Referee should only signal for the penalty kick to begin if the goalkeeper is on his goal line between the goal posts and facing the field of play. And when all the other players are positioned correctly.

The players other than the kicker must be located:

- Inside the field of play

Players must remain on the field of play whilst a penalty is taking place. If players were allowed to leave the field of play, they would invariably try and distract the penalty taker, either by making a show of leaving the field, or by moving around to stand behind the goal net to distract the kicker.

- Players must be outside the penalty area

All players - apart from the kicker and the goalkeeper - must remain outside the penalty area, and outside of the penalty arc.

- Players must be behind the penalty mark

Players are not permitted to stand in front of the penalty mark, in the area between the goal line and the penalty mark. This would unfairly distract both the goalkeeper and the penalty taker.

- Players must be at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the penalty mark

The 10-yard penalty arch ensures that players are at least 10 yards from the ball, and outside the penalty area when the penalty is taking place.

THE MADRID RULE ~ What is it?

Question: When does a penalty kick actually end?

Answer: Prior to a change in the Laws in season 1987/1988, the Penalty-Kick Law 14 was not clear in defining when a penalty kick had been completed; both when time had been extended at the end of a half to allow for the taking of a penalty kick, or when kicks are being taken from the penalty-mark to decide a winner after a match had ended in a draw.

The so-called 'Madrid Law' (...more correctly the Mexico Rule!) sought to minimize future confusion, following a controversial penalty goal, scored by the French player Bruno Bellone in the classic 1986 Mexico World Cup Quarter Final game between France - Brazil.

The French player Bellone, hit the crossbar during the penalty shoot-out, and the ball came back out and hit the rear of Brazil goalkeeper Carlos and went into the goal. The Referee allowed the goal to count, and France went on to win 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw following extra time. The Referee was Ioan Igna (Romania), and his linesmen were, Vojtech Christov (Czechoslovakia) and Lajos Nemeth (Hungary).

There was a lot of controversy about the French penalty kick at the time. But it was the Scottish Football Association who successfully sought clarification, by proposing the following Law 14 (Penalty Kick) change that was accepted at the 100th International Football Association Board (IFAB) meeting held at Bodysgallen Hall, Llandudno in Wales on Saturday 13th June 1987.

The approved text, was inserted at the bottom of the first paragraph of Law XIV, page 31 of the revised 1987/1988 'Referees' Chart and Players Guide to the Laws of Association Football', and was as follows:

"When a penalty kick is being taken during the normal course of play, or when time has been extended at half-time or full-time to allow a penalty-kick to be taken or retaken, a goal shall not be nullified if, before passing between the posts and under the cross-bar, the ball touches either or both of the goalposts, or the cross-bar, or the goalkeeper, or any combination of these agencies, providing that no other infringement has occurred."

At the same time, the following words, were also added to the end of the F. A. Board Decisions No. 6 paragraph as shown in italics below:

"When a match is extended, at half-time or full-time, to allow a penalty kick to be taken or retaken, the extension shall last until the moment that the penalty-kick has been completed, i.e., until the referee has decided whether a goal is scored or not, and the game shall terminate immediately the Referee has made his decision."

(The gist of these words still appears as part of the modern Law 14 - Penalty Kick).

Previous to season 1987/1988, the wording originally introduced by the IFAB on 17th June 1901 at Llangolen Wales, only referred to a goal being allowed if the ball touched the "goalkeeper" before passing between the posts. It made no mention of the ball bouncing off the framework of the goal and then deflecting into the goal off the goalkeeper.

(The Penalty Kick Law in the early 1900's, was numbered Law 17.)

The Law XIV International Board Decisions were stripped out of the Law book during the complete Law book re-write for season 1997/1998. This expunged the conflicting Decision No. 7(b) that previously stated, "the game shall terminate immediately the ball rebounds from the goalkeeper, the cross-bar or the goal-post". Some Referees, saw this as a clause that allowed them to end a penalty-kick as soon as the momentum of the ball ceased to travel forwards; and this conflicted with the new wording (and modern thinking) of 1987/1988, which is more aligned to the 'spirit of the game'.

So when does a penalty kick end?

To avoid any confusion, and for those of you who are looking for a simple solution to a very complex problem, the momentum of the kick is the crucial point in deciding when a penalty kick has been completed ………………..

"No matter how many combinations of goalpost, crossbar, goalkeeper's body parts etc. are involved, if the ball ends up in the goal because of the energy imparted onto it by the kicker's boot, a goal should be allowed."

Those of you, who are looking for a complex solution, which confirm the simple sentiments in the above paragraph, can refer back to FIFA Questions and Answers Booklet 1990, which specifically addressed every possibility when a penalty kick is completed at the extension of time and at kicks from the penalty mark. The over-elaborate detail, has been dropped from the later editions of FIFA Questions and Answers Booklets, but the concepts will still apply, until superseded by a change in the Laws.

PENALTY MARK/SPOT SIZE?

Question: Does the penalty spot have a particular size or dimension?

Answer: No, there is no size stipulated in the current Laws, but a 9 inch dimension has been mentioned in the past.

The 9 inch dimension has never been specified with regards to the penalty spot in the Laws, but there is a clue to its origin. Way back in the 1956 FA Referees' Chart, the Preface refers to the inclusion of "interpretations of the laws, made from time to time by the Referees' Committee of FIFA...and published for the first time as 'International Board Decisions' ".

Within the 'International Board Decisions' on page 4 of the 1956 Referees' Chart, a table of metric equivalents of Imperial measurements was first introduced. But it was not until 1975-1976 season, before the '9 inches = 0.22 meters' measurement appeared in the equivalents table.

There was no reference why this 9 inch measurement was included, so it must be assumed that it referred to the dimension of the penalty spot (and possibly the centre mark as well); for there is no other field measurement that could be 9 inches on the field of play. The equivalents table (which included the 9 inch reference), remained in the Law book until it was taken out completely, when the Laws were completely re-written for season 1997-1998.

The inclusion of the equivalents measurement table, suggests that, before 1956, the FIFA Referees' Committee published various interpretations of the laws - to guide non-UK countries - including its version of the field diagram. At some time up to 1975-1976 it was decided to put a size to the penalty mark, which equated to the 9 inch diameter of the ball (logical), but without proposing it to the IFAB to be accepted formally as Law. Some non-UK Law books of 1973 show a 9inch diameter penalty 'spot'.

Although 'Penalty Mark' is the formal law description, it has left the door open to the use of a short line. As the original penalty-kick reference was a line so there is logic in that too.

However, for many years, it was a 'Penalty Spot' in FA charts and accepted as such.

The Referee:

- The Referee does not signal for a PK to be taken until all of the players have taken up positions in accordance with the Law

The Referee should always indicate the start of a penalty by using a short but loud and clear whistle. To indicate that the Referee has awarded a penalty, he should blow his whistle loudly, and by point an outstretched arm downwards towards the penalty mark.

The Assistant Referee will signal a penalty decision by raising his flag across his chest.

Position of the Referee and Assistant Referees

Over the years, there have been discussions as to the best position for Referees and Assistant Referee to take during penalty kicks. Referees have their own ideas as to their best position. There is a great deal to look for and monitor during the taking of a penalty kick.

It can be very difficult (nearly impossible) for the Referee to watch for encroachment by players, at the same time as ensuring that the penalty kick is taken correctly. Recently, Referees have been asked to 'clamp down' on encroaching players. It is very important to let players know beforehand, that encroachment will not be tolerated. Tell the players to stay out of the penalty area and penalty circle, until the kick has taken place. This sometimes deters players. But invariably - in real life - we only have one pair of eyes. (Some of us Referees are blind , or so I am lead to believe by the comments received during nearly every game).

There is a great deal to look for and to monitor during the taking of penalty kicks. A change to the Laws the Assistant Referees are now expected to indicate to the Referee when the goalkeeper moves forward from his goal line at a penalty kick - they are also responsible for judging whether the ball has crossed the goal line for a goal. The nature of the signal to be given is to be determined by the officials in pre-match discussions (briefs). Taking this advice into consideration, the best position for the Referee and the Assistant Referee is depicted by the positions shown in Fig 5a. It can be very difficult (nearly impossible) for the Referee to watch for all encroachment by players, at the same time as ensuring that the penalty kick is taken correctly. Recently, Referees have been asked to 'clamp down' on encroaching players. It is very important to let players know beforehand, that encroachment will not be tolerated. Tell the players to stay out of the penalty area and penalty circle, until the kick has taken place. This sometimes deters players. But invariably - in real life, Referees only have one pair of eyes. The Referee must give a clear signal to the players (particularly to the penalty taker and the goalkeeper) to tell them when the penalty kick can be taken.

The Procedure:

- The player taking the penalty must kick the ball forwards

If the ball does not move forward - the penalty should be retaken.

- The penalty taker must not play the ball a second time until it has touched another player

If the penalty taker touches the ball a second time before it has touched another player, an indirect free kick is awarded to the defending team.

- The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward

The distance the ball moves is irrelevant, so long as it 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 goal posts and under the crossbar:

The Referee decides whether a goal has been scored during and extended time penalty

Infringements/Sanctions:

Generally speaking, infringements are punished in the same way - regardless of which team committed them.

If a player from the defending team infringes before the ball has been touched and moves forward, an unsuccessful penalty will be retaken; but a successful penalty will be allowed to stand.

If a player from the attacking team infringes before the ball has been touched and moves forward, an unsuccessful penalty will be not be retaken; but if a goal is scored, the penalty must be retaken.

If players from both teams infringe simultaneously (for example, if a player from each team enters the penalty area before the kick is taken), the penalty is retaken regardless of whether a goal was scored or not.

Infringements can occur either before the ball has been touched (and in play) or after the penalty kick has been taken.

Infringements before the penalty kick take place may be committed by the kicker, the goalkeeper, or by the kicker's teammates, or the defending team.

Infringements after the penalty kick have been taken may be committed by the kicker or by an outside agent.

Cautions should not necessarily be given automatically for first offences, including failure by members of either team to respect the required distance, infringements by the kicker before the penalty kick being taken, or the goalkeeper who comes off his goal line whilst the penalty is taking place. Referees must be prepared to take action against a player(s) entering the penalty area before a penalty kick is taken. According to the Laws of the Game it is not necessary to caution a player guilty of this offence but the referee must be prepared to order the kick to be re-taken in appropriate circumstances.

If players commit any infringements after the Referee has signaled for the penalty kick to commence, and whilst the kick is in progress, he should warn the guilty player(s). Any repeat of offences by the same player(s) during any penalty retakes, should be sanctioned by a caution for persistent infringement.
The Caution should be administered before any play is restarted.

The Referee must distinguish between clear infringements of Law 14 and those that are merely doubtful, trifling or accidental.

That’s what Refereeing is all about!!!

If the Goalkeeper infringes the Laws of the Game:

Once the Referee signals for the penalty kick to commence, the goalkeeper may move from side to side along his goal line between the goal posts, but he may not move off the goal line (into the field or backward into the goal net area) until the ball has been kicked. It is irrelevant if one or both of the goalkeeper's feet are not physically touching the ground, so long as the goalkeeper has not moved forward or backward from the goal line itself. The goalkeeper must also be facing the kicker.

- (a) If the goalkeeper infringes the Laws of the Game - the Referee should allow the kick to proceed

It might be prudent - if before the Referee has signaled for the kick to commence - the Referee asks any goalkeeper who is clearly standing away from his goal line - to " Get back on the line". It is asking a bit much, if the Referee who has seen that the goalkeeper is standing off his line, then ignores this fact by letting the kicker commence the penalty, knowing full well beforehand, that if the kicker misses the goal, the penalty will be retaken - because the keeper was not correctly positioned.

I would suggest that you (the Referee) make sure that all the players; the kicker and the goalkeeper are positioned correctly before the kick is taken. If the goalkeeper then decides to move off his goal line, after you have signaled, and before the kicker has touched the ball, and after you have told him to " Get back on the line", then it is the goalkeeper's own fault if the penalty has to be retaken - and not your fault.

Once you have blown your whistle to allow a penalty to commence, you are not advised to try and stop the penalty from taking place because you have suddenly noticed players encroaching - you could end up making a lot of trouble for yourself, especially if you blow to stop the penalty, and in the meantime - the kicker has already scored a goal.

Once you have given your signal for the penalty to commence- ignore any infringements until the outcome of the kick is known. Deal with any infringements after.

If at all possible, do not start a penalty if you notice that the goalkeeper is incorrectly positioned off his goal line. This advice also applies to players encroaching.

- (b) If the goalkeeper infringes the Laws of the Game - and the ball enters the goal, a goal must be awarded

- (c) If the goalkeeper infringes the Laws of the Game - and the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is retaken

If a team-mate of the player taking the kick enters the penalty area or
moves in front of or within 9.5 m (10 yds) of the penalty mark:

If, after the penalty kick has been taken:

- (a) 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

- (b) 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

If an outside agent as touches the ball it moves forward:

(An outside agent can be a dog, another person/spectator, overhead wires or trees, another ball from the adjacent pitch - in short, an outside agent is any person, animal or thing that intrudes itself illegally onto the field of play.)

Luckily, occurrences of interference by outside agents are rare, but when they do occur, the Referee should be prepared to take the correct action.

The Referee must ensure that the outside agent is safely removed before the kick can be retaken.

- The kick is retaken

If, after the penalty kick has been taken, the ball is stopped or interfered with by an outside agent on its way towards goal, the penalty kick should be retaken.

If the ball rebounds into the field of play from the goalkeeper,
the crossbar or the goal posts, and is then touched by an outside agent:

- (a) The Referee must stop play
- (b) Play is restarted with a dropped ball at the place where it touched the outside agent

If the ball bursts or the outside interference occurs after the ball rebounds back into play from a goal post, crossbar, or goalkeeper, the penalty kick will be deemed to have been taken correctly and play will be restarted by the award of a dropped ball.

When the ball bursts, the Referee should ask for another ball and restart the game by dropping the ball,
If the penalty-kick is being taken in additional time (see Law 7) and the ball strikes the goal-post and/or cross-bar and bursts, the game ends. (FIFA)

If an infringement occurs, and the Referee orders for the penalty kick to be retaken,
it is not necessary for the same player to take the penalty kick.

RESTART MATRIX

Kicks from the Penalty Mark

The aim of this page is to deal correctly with penalty 'shoot outs' and 'Golden Goals' that decide the outcome of a game.

Penalty Kick ~ Introduction: Penalty Shoot Out Card: Referees' Position: The Referee Procedure: Procedure: Including the... Golden Goal

Penalty Kick ~ Introduction:

Taking kicks from the penalty mark and 'Golden Goals' are methods of determining a result where competition rules require there to be a winning team after a match has been drawn

Penalty kicks can be one of the most dramatic events in a game of football (soccer). They can also be one of the most nerve-wracking and stressful occasions. This is a very tense and immediate way of reaching a conclusion for the result of a drawn game. It has a highly ritualized feel to it, and there are a number of procedures that must be adhered to by both teams. Television has 'milked' the drama of these situations, particularly when the result leads to winning an important Cup Competition.

Particularly in football (soccer) cup competitions and tournaments, the Rules may stipulate that a result is required if a match is drawn. (For example if only one team is to go progress forward whilst the losing team is to be eliminated.) Before the advent of 'Penalty Shoot Outs', results of drawn games were decided by the toss of a coin. To include an additional element of interest, and to enable teams to take some responsibility for the result of a game, one modern way to decide the outcome of a drawn game is to have the two teams take a series of kicks from the penalty mark. There is no specific Law to cover 'shoot-outs' - but it is important enough to warrant an appendix to the Laws entitled 'Kicks from the Penalty Mark' that may be found immediately following Law 17. All the details from the above appendix are contained within this 'Kicks from the Penalty Mark' web page, along with further advice and comment.

Penalty Shoot Out Card:

It is important that Referees read the respective competition rules before officiating a game. It is very easy to be complacent, and to only have a vague idea on how to organize penalty 'shoot outs' properly and efficiently. It is essential that the Referee gets all the details correct - otherwise problems will arise unnecessarily.

Below is a Penalty Shoot-out Card design. Take this to matches to remind you of the procedures.

This Card can be DOWNLOAD & PRINTED... Right Click - 'SAVE Link as...' on the card below to get it!

Referees' Position:

The Referee does not signal for a penalty kick to be taken until all of the players...
have taken up positions in accordance with the Law

- The Referee should always indicate the start of a penalty by using a short but loud and clear whistle.

The Referee decides when a penalty kick has been completed

- The Referee is the sole judge as to when a penalty has been completed, or if a goal has been scored or not. (With the help of his Assistant Referees' of course!!)

Position of the Referee and Assistant Referees

Over the years, there have been discussions as to the best position for Referees and Assistant Referees' to take during penalty kicks. Individual Referees have their own ideas as to their best position. See Fig. 5b below. There is a great deal to look for and monitor during the taking of a penalty kick. The nature of any signals to be given is to be determined by the officials in pre-match discussions (briefs).

- The Referee must give a clear signal to the players (particularly to the penalty taker and the goalkeeper) to tell them exactly when the penalty kick can be taken.

The Referee should position himself as shown... The Assistant Referee (AR) who is responsible for monitoring the goal, will take up a position alongside the goal as shown (to the right of the goal). To ensure that the kicks are taken fairly, and as quickly and smoothly as possible, the awaiting goalkeeper should remain in the position - near the Assistant Referee (AR). In other words - the goalkeeper who is the team mate of the penalty kick taker, must remain on the field of play, outside the penalty area in which the kicks are being taken, and on the goal line where it meets the penalty area boundary line, at the position shown in  'Awaiting Round Team Goalkeeper'. This minimizes the distance that the goalkeepers' have to walk between kicks. It also prevents managers from providing additional coaching to their goalkeepers between kicks. The position of the waiting goalkeeper, also allows the Referees' to keep them within sight - thus preventing any unnecessary antics. The Referee must give a clear signal to the players (particularly to the penalty taker and the goalkeeper) to tell them exactly when the penalty kicks can be taken. All players, except the player taking the kick and the two goalkeepers, must remain within the center circle. All team officials must remain off the field of play. The Assistant Referee who is responsible for organizing the players waiting in the center circle, should position himself in (or near) the center circle.

The Referee Procedure:

- The referee chooses the goal at which the kicks will be taken...

The Referee is the sole judge as to which goal will be used for the penalty 'shoot-out', and he may need to listen to advice from Police or security personnel. This can be an important decision if the supporters of one team are behind one goal, and those of the other team are at the opposite end. Team officials etc. must leave the field of play before the kicks can commence. The condition of the playing surface and the proximity of the changing rooms (in case an early exit is required) are also factors that the Referee will need to consider when selecting which goal to use.

- The referee tosses a coin and the team whose captain wins the toss takes the first kick

The team that wins the toss of the coin takes the first penalty kick. The winning Captain no longer has a choice on nominating the opposing team to take the first kick.

- The referee keeps a record of the kicks being taken

This task can be delegated to the Assistant Referee.

Subject to the conditions explained below, both teams take five kicks

- The kicks are taken alternately by the teams

- If, before both teams have taken five kicks, one has scored more goals than the other could score, even if it were to complete its five kicks, no more kicks are taken...

If one team gains an insurmountable advantage during the taking of the first five kicks,
there is no need for the remaining kicks to be taken,
and the Referee will stop the penalty kicks at that point

- The goalkeeper who is the team mate of the kicker must remain on the field of play, outside the penalty area in which the kicks are being taken, on the goal line where it meets the penalty area boundary line

- Unless otherwise stated, the relevant Laws of the Game and International F.A. Board Decisions apply when kicks from the penalty mark are being taken.

- When a team finishes the match with a greater number of players than their opponents, they shall reduce their numbers to equate with that of their opponents and inform the referee of the name and number of each player excluded. The team captain has this responsibility.

Note: This arrangement for kicks from the penalty mark is applied at the end of play when one team has fewer players on the field of play than the other because of expulsion or injury.

The team with more players will be asked to reduce their number of players to equate to the lesser numbers of the other team. This is to avert the situation when all the 10 players in the team with fewer players have taken their kicks, and use their strongest kicker again to take the eleventh penalty - thus giving the team with fewer players an unfair advantage. When a team has to reduce its numbers, the team captain is responsible for informing the Referee of the name and number of the player(s) who will not take kicks from the penalty mark. The named player must leave the field of play before the kicks can commence.

- Before the start of kicks from the penalty mark the referee shall ensure that only an equal number of players from each team remain within the center circle and they shall take the kicks.

Procedure: Including the... Golden Goal

The Golden Goal and taking kicks from the penalty mark are two methods of determining the winning team where competition rules require there to be a winning team after a match has been drawn.

The Golden Goal Procedure

- During the period of extra time played at the end of normal playing time, the team which scores the first goal is declared the winner

- If no goals are scored the match is decided by kicks from the penalty mark

Questions and Answers:

This web site and the advice and answers to any questions are not sanctioned by or affiliated with any governing body of soccer. The opinions expressed on this site should not be considered official interpretations of the Laws of the Game. Although the content of the latest Laws are included on this site, the majority of the content is the opinion of the Webmaster and other Referees worldwide. If you need an official ruling you should contact your local representative/association or visit the FIFA, or the English FA web sites for the Laws themselves.

Questions and Answers:

Question 1: When is a penalty-kick considered completed in the event of additional time being extended at half-time or full-time to allow it to be taken, or in the event of kicks being taken from the penalty-mark to determine the winner of a match?

Answer 1: (FIFA). There are three possible situations:

- 1. The player taking the penalty, kicks the ball which then:

- [a] Passes entirely over the goal line, between the goal posts and beneath the crossbar.
Decision: Goal, the penalty-kick (or kicks from the penalty-mark) is over and therefore the extended time also, if applicable.

- [b] Goes over the boundary line of the field of play, either passing the goal line or over the top of the crossbar.
Decision: The penalty-kick (or kick from the penalty-mark) is over and therefore the extended time also, if applicable.


- 2. The player taking the penalty, kicks the ball which, having rebounded from either goal-post or the cross-bar,

- [a] Passes entirely over the goal line, between the goal posts and beneath the crossbar.
Decision: Goal, the penalty-kick (or kicks from the penalty-mark) is over and therefore the extended time also, if applicable.

- [b] Passes beyond the field of play over the goal line or over the crossbar.
Decision: The penalty-kick (or kicks from the penalty-mark is over and therefore the extended time also, if applicable.

- [c] Rebounds back into play.
Decision: The penalty-kick (or kicks from the penalty-mark is over and therefore the extended time also, if applicable.

- [d] Rebounds back into play, hits the goalkeeper and passes entirely over the goal line, between the goal posts and beneath the crossbar.
Decision: Goal, the penalty-kick (or kicks from the penalty-mark is over and therefore the extended time also, if applicable.

- [e] Rebounds into the field of play, hits the goalkeeper and passes beyond the goal line or over the crossbar.
Decision: The penalty-kick (or kicks from the penalty-mark) is over and therefore the extended time also, if applicable.

- [f] Rebounds back into the field of play, strikes the goalkeeper and remains in the field of play.
Decision: The penalty-kick (or kicks from the penalty-mark) is over and therefore the extended time also, if applicable.

- [g] Bounces onto the goal-Iine, between the goal posts and beneath the crossbar.
Decision: The referee must wait until the ball's flight is finished and, if it passes entirely over the-goal-line, between the goal-posts and beneath the cross-bar, he shall allow the goal and terminate the extended time, if applicable,


- 3. The player who is taking the penalty, kicks the ball, which is touched or played by the goalkeeper

- [a] Who holds it firmly?
Decision: The penalty-kick (or kicks from the penalty-mark) is over and therefore the extended time also, if applicable,

- [b] Who fails to prevent the ball from entirely passing over the goal line, between the goal posts and beneath the crossbar?
Decision: Goal, the penalty-kick (or kicks from the penalty-mark) is over and therefore the extended time also, if applicable.

- [c] Who deflects it back into the field of play?
Decision: The penalty-kick (or kicks from the penalty-mark) is over and therefore the extended time also, if applicable.

- [d] Making the ball rebound from one of the goal posts or the crossbar hit the goalkeeper and passes entirely over the goal-line, between the goal-posts and beneath the cross-bar.
Decision: Goal, the penalty-kick (or kicks from the penalty-mark) is over and therefore the extended time also, if applicable.

- [f] Who allows it to roll under him and pass entirely over the goal line, between the goal posts and beneath the crossbar?
Decision: Goal, the penalty-kick (or kicks from the penalty-mark) is over and therefore the extended time also, if applicable.

Question 2: A penalty taker purposefully plays the ball forward for a teammate, who was properly positioned outside the penalty area at the time the kick occurred. The teammate runs forward and slams the ball into the goal. What action should the Referee take?

Answer 2.The goal should stand, so long as no other infringement occurred. The teammate was outside the penalty area before the kick took place. The teammate (along with any other properly positioned player) is allowed to enter the penalty area once the ball has been touched and moved forward by the kicker. The teammate has just as much right to touch the ball as any other player.

Note: The ball comes into play at a penalty kick, as soon as it is touched and moves forward.

Question 3: Can a player be made to take a penalty kick?

Answer 3: A player who is confident in taking on this responsibility is likely to be more successful than a player who is nervous. No team should force a player to take a penalty if the player does not want to. Nervousness is a primary cause of poor penalties. Players who are good under pressure and are known to have an accurate shot make the best penalty takers. Many teams have already designated a player to take penalties during a match, so that the captain will know whom to nominate - this avoids the potential for arguments. The Referee cannot make a player take a penalty - the team Captain is ultimately responsible for resolving any disputes of this nature.

Question 4: Law 14 states that the goalkeeper "must remain on his goal line, facing the kicker, between the goal posts until the ball has been kicked". The goalkeeper may move anywhere along the goal line from side to side, before the penalty kick has commenced. Many goalkeepers will move slightly to one side to encourage the kicker to aim at the other side. And then dive to that side just as the kicker shoots. What action should the Referee take if the goalkeeper jumps up into the air from his goal line, just as the kicker shoots.

Answer 4: The goalkeeper is allowed to move along his goal line; this includes jumping up above the goal line. The penalty kick is legal, so long as the goalkeeper does not leave the plane of his goal line, or comes into the field of play before the ball has been touched. In this instance - the Referee should allow the penalty kick to continue.

"What action should the Referee take, if the goalkeeper does a hand-stand on his goal line, just before the kicker shoots,
and saves the ball from entering the goal with the back of his outward facing heels which are near the crossbar?"

Question 5: Is it true that penalty takers are not allowed to stop their run, or hesitate once they have started moving forward to take the kick.

Answer 5: Law 14 does not address this question directly. It does state, however, that if the ball enters the goal and the penalty taker had infringed the Laws before the ball was in play, the penalty kick must be retaken. Any hesitation, clearly attempting to put the keeper off-balance before taking the kick could be construed as unsporting behavior - in which case the player concerned could also be Cautioned, and the kick retaken if a goal was scored.

Advice:- If during the run-up, the penalty taker deliberately stops his run (no matter for how long) and then continues on to kick the ball, this should be seen as unsporting behavior. If the ball enters the goal, the penalty kick should be retaken.

If during the run-up, the penalty taker deliberately shimmies whilst still running forward to kick the ball - allow the penalty to continue. A goal should be allowed if the ball enters the goal.

The greatest asset a penalty taker has, is the ability to trick the goalkeeper into diving the wrong way. The penalty kicker should not therefore be penalized for trying to achieve this, so long as this in not done in an unsporting manner. The 'shimmy' whilst running forward, is no more illegal than the kicker looking to the left of the goal, and then shooting to the right!!

Players will always try and deceive the goalkeeper during their run up to the ball, as to the direction of the kicker's shot. This is quite normal, and is different to when a player deliberately stops his run in order for the goalkeeper to move one direction, before the kicker shoots in the opposite corner of the net - this again is contrary to the spirit of the game.

Question 6: Which penal offence leading to the award of a penalty kick is not committed against an opponent?

Answer 6: Handball.

Question 7: Does a penalty taker have to wait for the Referee's signal, or can he shoot whenever he's ready?

Answer 7: Yes: The penalty taker must await the Referee's signal before taking the penalty kick. Permission to commence will not be given until the Referee is satisfied:

- (a) That all the players are properly in position for the penalty kick to be taken.

- (b) That the ball is placed correctly on the penalty spot.

- (c) That the penalty taker has clearly been identified the to the defending goalkeeper.

Question 8: Can the penalty taker move the ball slightly off the penalty mark (for example, to get it out of a muddy rut)?

Answer 8: As mentioned above in the "Position of the ball" section:

The ball should be placed exactly on the penalty mark, regardless of the state of the pitch. Moving the ball to a slightly different position, even with the apparent agreement of both teams should not be permitted. But I do believe in a modicum of common sense here: If Team 'A' are winning 10 - 0, and the losing Team 'B' is awarded a penalty in the last minute of the game - does it really matter if the penalty taker moves the ball a couple of inches to one side, because the penalty spot has disappeared under an inch of water.

Law 14 requires the ball to be placed "on the penalty mark". Referees will normally interpret this to mean that the bottom of the ball must be fully in contact with the mark itself. There are no stipulations as to the size of the mark. Law 1 states, "Within each penalty area a penalty mark is made....". This could be a cross, a circle, a spot, a square, a triangle, somebody's telephone number!!!!!. Some fields of play invariably do not have a mark at all, some have a dollop of mud to mark the spot, and a slight hollow can identify most. Some slight movement of the ball during placement should be allowed, but the Referee's word is Law.

Question 9: If there's a huge puddle right where the penalty spot is, where should the ball be placed?

Answer 9: The Laws make no explicit provision or guidance to allow the Referee or the kicker to move the ball elsewhere than the prescribed penalty mark puddle (12yds/11m from the midpoint between the goal posts and equidistant to them). Even though the penalty spot is underwater, the player or the Referee is not officially allowed to place the ball elsewhere. One or two officious Referees may require the kicker to take the shot from the puddle, but generally, Referees will use common sense as to the exact positioning of the ball.

Advice: If the defending team moan because you (the Referee) had allowed the ball to be repositioned away from the penalty mark puddle. - Just say to them:

"I would do the same if a your team was awarded a penalty kick" or

"What would you expect me to do if it was your team taking the penalty?"

................That usually shuts them up !

The majority of Referees believe in officiating within the proper spirit of the game, as it was intended be. Referees should consider the following points:

- (a) As the penalty mark itself is likely to be obscured by the puddle, the Referee is the sole judge of determining exactly where the mark is, even though it may look off-center or a little further from the goal than might be expected.

- (b) The Referee may allow the kicker to take the kick from a dry spot slightly more than 12yds/11m away from the goal - in this case, should the other players retreat further outside the penalty area and at least 10 yards from the new alternate spot? The penalty arc and edge of the penalty area then become nearer than 10 yards, from the alternative mark.

Advice: Do not lose any sleep over this - allow the players to stand according to a normal penalty kick. It would be impossible to monitor encroachment, if you asked the players to remain half a yard/meter further than the marked edge of the penalty area or half penalty circle. At the best, the players would only laugh at you; and at the worst, this would only confuse players and lead to dissent.

Whatever you (the Referee) decide - be prepared to live gracefully with your decision.

If an officious Referee insists on the ball being floated on the penalty mark puddle, the kicker's team could consider kicking the ball slightly forward and out of the puddle, to allow a team-mate to then enter the penalty area and hopefully 'bang' the ball towards goal before the defenders can react. This would be legal, and any goal scored would be allowed to stand.

Question 10: If after the Referee has signaled for a penalty to commence, the goalkeeper moves off his goal line before the ball has been kicked, what action should the Referee take?

Answer:

- (a) If a goal is scored, the goal should be allowed to stand.

- (b) If a goal is not scored, the penalty should be retaken.

Question 11: Must the ball be moved forwards during the taking of a penalty kick:

Answer 11: Yes. Law 14 states that " the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward" If the ball does not move forward, the penalty must be retaken.

Question 12: During the taking of a penalty kick, a player mis-kicks the ball. The ball slightly rolls forward. The player kicks the ball a second time. What action should the Referee take?

Answer 12: The Referee should award an indirect free kick to the defending team.

Law 14 states that:

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.

Question 13: As a penalty kicker moves forward to take the kick, he slips on the muddy ground, and moves the ball forward about a yard. One of his colleagues, who were positioned correctly at the commencement of the penalty kick, runs forward and scores a goal. Should the Referee allow the goal to stand?

Answer 13: Tricky one!!

It could be argued that so long as the colleague was positioned correctly before the penalty-taking place, the ball is deemed to be in play once it is kicked and moves forward. The colleague is then within his rights to gain possession of the ball and shoot towards goal.

Advice: I would not allow a penalty kick to continue, until the kicker has deliberately kicked the ball. If the kicker accidentally touches the ball, this would circumvent the 'spirit of the game', and should a goal be scored, this would be deemed as allowing the attacking team an unfair advantage that is totally against the 'spirit of the game'.

Question 14: What action should the Referee take if the penalty spot has not been marked or has been erased?

Answer 14: This depends somewhat on the level and importance of the game being played. If this is a local 'Park' level game on a Sunday morning, it is not beyond a normal Referee's capabilities to stride out the distance should a penalty be awarded in the game. The Referee can identify the center of the goal as best as he can under such circumstances.

On the other hand, if this is a higher level, more important game, it is assumed that the Referee would already have carried out a detailed pitch inspection, and requested that the penalty mark be reinstated before play can commence. If the penalty mark disappears during the game itself, then the Referee can ask officials to remark the spot, but I would advise against this (as this may lead to you - the Referee - being ridiculed) . Again, it is not beyond a normal Referee's capabilities to stride out the distance should a penalty be awarded in the game. The ultimate aim, is to allow the game to continue quickly. You (the Referee) should grasp responsibility for deciding where the ball should be placed - and not allow anyone else to decide for you!

Question 15: During the taking of a penalty kick, the kicker scuffs the ball that dribbles towards the goal. There is not enough motion for the ball to reach the goal line. Immediately after the kicker had kicked the ball, a dog has run onto the field of play and decides to bite the moving ball. What action should the Referee take?

Answer 15: Even though the ball would not have reached the goal line, Law 12 stipulates that:

" The ball is touched by an outside agent as it moves forward:

- The kick is retaken "

The Referee should order that the penalty be retaken, albeit that this gives the attacking team another (unfair) chance to score a goal.

Question 16: Before a penalty kick is taken, the kicking team asks the Referee for a substitution to be made, to allow them to bring on their 'ace' penalty taker, who just happens to be a named substitute. Can the Referee allow the 'ace' substitute to replace a colleague, and can that 'ace' substitute then take the penalty kick?

Answer 16: A substitution can be made at any time during a game. Providing that the kicker's team has not already use up their entire substitute quota, the substitution can be made. Once legally on the field of play, the 'ace' substitute (or any other team member) can then take the penalty kick. (He'll probably miss anyway!)

Question 17: If during the taking of a penalty kick, the goalkeeper parries the ball onto the crossbar (or onto the upright, or the ball deflects back off the goalkeeper into play), is the ball dead?

Answer 17: No, the ball is deemed to be still in play, so long as no infringement has occurred during the taking of the penalty.

The only exception to this is when play has been 'extended' at the end of a half:

Law 14 provides states that:

"Additional "extended" 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. As soon as a goal has been scored in "extended" time, the half is over."

The primary difference between a penalty taken in the normal course of a game, and a penalty taken in 'extended' time, is that the half ends as soon as the 'extended' time penalty has been taken. (In other words, as soon as it is obvious that either the ball has legally entered the goal, or that the ball is not going to enter the goal as a direct result of the correctly taken penalty).

Before 1997, the Laws stated that in 'extended' time, the ball would be deemed dead as soon as it rebounded from the crossbar, goal post or the goalkeeper. This ruling no longer applies. Law 14 now states that a goal is awarded if:

- The ball touches either or both of the goal posts and/or the crossbar, and/or the goalkeeper

But see my question no. 1 above????

Question 18: Can a player taking a penalty, pass to a colleague instead of shooting directly at goal?

Answer 18: Yes, providing that the ball is kicked and moves forward, and the colleague was in the correct starting position before the penalty kick took place. The Laws state that that the ball must be kicked and moved forward, and that the penalty taker must not touch the ball a second time until another player has touched it.

In some cases a pass may actually be the penalty taker's best option (for surprise value, or when the penalty mark is under a puddle or inside a muddy hollow.)

Question 19: From Mark Flexhaug: Calgary Minor Soccer Association: from Calgary, Alberta.

Let's say that a defender commits a penal offence (tripping) inside their penalty area. What is the proper sequence of signals to indicate that a penalty kick is to be taken? I have seen it done a couple of different ways?

Answer 19: Firstly, if the trip was committed when the ball is out of play (for instance, if the ball had traveled over the goal line and was out of play when the trip occurred) then the result is a goal kick to the defending side. And a possible caution for unsporting behavior, to the offender.

If the ball was still in play when the trip is committed, then the sequence of events should be as follows:

- The Referee has to decide if the trip was deliberate and constitutes the award of a penalty kick to the attacker.
- Once the Referee has decided that a penalty will be awarded, he should quickly look towards his Assistant Referee (if he is lucky to have one) and ascertain if the Assistant Referee has seen anything prior to the trip (such as an offside) that would negate the award of a penalty kick. Do not allow Club Linesmen to indicate penalty kicks (you should specifically tell the Club Linesman during your pre-match brief, not to indicate penalty kicks – this is the Referee’s prerogative).
- Once a penalty has been definitely established, the Referee should blow his whistle loud, short and sharp, and point an outstretched arm downwards and towards the penalty mark. Do not point with one finger, but use all of your fingers outstretched and downward.
- The Referees next action is to prevent any retaliation or ‘after effects’ emanating from the trip. He can do this by loud short blasts of the whistle, or if he is big (like me -webmaster), actually get between the warring players (this is not recommended for the faint-hearted). The official view is to stand back and watch, until the sparks have subsided. Deal with any necessary discipline accordingly.
- If there is no feud to worry about, the Referee should expect the usual crowd of defenders (particularly the offender) to rush towards him, protesting their innocence. This nearly always happens when a penalty kick is given.
- The Referee should maneuver his position, so as to lessen the approach of players, thus giving them a clear ‘body language’ signal, that distinctly shows that he (the Referee) is not going to change his mind.
- *The Referee should move quickly backwards (keeping the players in view at all times) to a safe position and stand on the goal line, just outside of the goal area, and to the side of the goal.
- The Referee should use both arms to wave away any players who are approaching him in a group, he should also tell players in a strong voice, to "move away". If players continue to approach the Referee, and are bearing down on him, the Referee should step back a couple of paces off the field of play.
- Once he has done this, the Law 12 Caution able Offence, "deliberately leaves the field of play without the referee's permission" is added to the Referee’s armory for dealing with anyone daft enough to still ignore the Referees signals to "move away".
- If a player then deliberately leaves the field of play, and approaches the Referee, the Referee should take one of the following actions. (a) Caution the player for deliberately leaving the field of play: (b) Caution the player for unsporting conduct): (c) Caution the player for dissent: Of course, the Referee will need to send-off any player using insulting or abusive language, and/or gestures. Any disciplinary action should be taken before the penalty kick proceeds. There is no harm in explaining your penalty decision to players who approach you in a civilized manner in fact, this goes some way to building a rapport with reasonably behaved players - (but are there any such things??)
- If the trip prevented a goal scoring opportunity, the Referee should sent the offender off.
- Presuming that the Referee does not have any approaching players, or disciplinary action to deal with; the Referee will be positioned on the goal line as stated * above. Once the players have calmed down (they usually need a few seconds) the Referee should walk back into the field of play to orchestrate the taking of the penalty kick.
- The Referee should identify exactly which player will be taking the kick. This player must be identified to the goalkeeper also.
Once this has been established, the Referee should ensure that all players (except the defending goalkeeper and the penalty taker) are outside of the penalty area, and behind the level of the penalty mark. They must also be on the field of play. For instance, players are not allowed to stand behind the goal net during the taking of a penalty kick.
- The Referee should hold up his whistle, and tell the kicker and the goalkeeper to await his (the Referee’s) signal, before commencing the penalty. This is important, and prevents any misunderstanding as to when the penalty can commence.
- The Referee should check that all of the players and the Assistant Referee are correctly positioned, before blowing his whistle to start the penalty. When blowing the whistle, the Referee should simultaneously raise an outstretched arm towards the goal. This demonstrates to those who cannot hear the whistle that the penalty can commence.
- If a goal is legally scored, there is no need to indicate this with the whistle; it is obvious when a goal is scored. The Referee should just point an outstretched arm towards the center circle, to indicate that a goal has been scored, and that play will restart with a place a kick in the center circle. The fact that the Referee walks backwards away from the penalty area, also demonstrates that the goal is legal and has been allowed by the Referee.
- The Referee should walk away backwards towards the center circle keeping a close eye on the players in the penalty area.
- If a goal is scored, but an infringement has taken place that warrants the retaking of the penalty kick, then the Referee should indicate this by blowing his whistle (two short sharp blasts usually suffice to tell players that all is not correct!). He should also point again towards the penalty mark, and use his voice to tell players that the penalty is to be retaken.

A lot more signals than you expected eh!!!!!! Nonetheless, the procedure is very simple, and becomes automatic when done a few times. And it works!!!!!!!!

Question 20: A penalty kick is awarded to the Red Team and all of the players are legally positioned. The penalty kicker has been properly identified, and the defending goalkeeper is ready on his line waiting for the penalty to take place. The Referee blows his whistle for the penalty kick to be taken. As the kick is taken an over-zealous photographer runs on to the field of play in an attempt to take a ‘close-up’ photograph, but inadvertently stops the ball from entering the goal. The ball has not touched the goalkeeper, crossbar, or either of the goal posts. The penalty kicker from team Red loses his temper and becomes very angry. He runs up to the photographer and punches the photographer, in the face, knocking him unconscious to the ground. What action should the Referee take and how should the game be restarted?

Answer 20: Infringements before a penalty kick takes place may be committed by the kicker, the goalkeeper or by the kicker's teammates, or the defending team. An outside agent may also commit infringements after the penalty kick has been taken. In this case, an outside agent - the photographer, committed the infringement of illegally stopping the ball whilst it was in actually in play immediately after the taking of the penalty kick.

The Laws state that if the ball is touched by an outside agent as it moves forward, the penalty kick must be retaken: (An outside agent can be a dog, another person/spectator, overhead wires or trees, a photographer! another ball from the adjacent pitch - in short, an outside agent is any person, animal or thing that intrudes itself illegally onto the field of play.) Luckily, occurrences of interference by outside agents are rare, but when they do occur, the Referee should be prepared to take the correct action. The Referee must ensure that the outside agent is safely removed before the kick can be retaken.

The correct action to be taken by the Referee in this sequence of events is as follows;

- Blow the whistle to stop play, and to indicate that offences have occurred. There are two offences committed here.
- (a) The intrusion of the outside agent: and
- (b) Violent conduct by the Red kicker.
- Keep your eyes on the active area and watch exactly what happens when the Red player thumps the photographer.
- Try and prevent further escalation of trouble, by imposing yourself between the offending Red player, the photographer, and any retaliating persons. (In retrospect, you should have tried to anticipate the Red player from committing the offence in the first place.)
- Place yourself in such a position as to gain the best viewpoint of incoming trouble. This shows players that you can see any further offences should they be committed. This stance may prevent further trouble.
- Immediately summon help to treat the injured photographer or to remove the photographer from the field of play. If no such facilities are available, ensure that the photographer is not harmed any further. In an incident of this nature, football takes second place. Do all you possibly can to ensure that the photographer (who has been knocked out) does not suffocate by swallowing his tongue – even if this means taking first-aid recovery action yourself, if no alternative is readily available. Summon medical assistance immediately.
- Once the photographer is out of danger. Indicate to players that the penalty must be retaken. Do this both verbally and by pointing your arm towards the penalty mark to indicate to those out of hearing, that the penalty is to be retaken.
- Remove the Red offending player away from the immediate scene.
- Seek the advice of your Assistant Referee if needs be.
- Take the particulars of the offending Red player, and note the details in your notepad.
- Ask the offending Red player to leave the field of play, directing him, to leave by the safest route. For example, NOT past the photographer or the opposition players.
- Take any names of witnesses to the incident. Witnesses may be needed to give evidence later.
- Organize the removing of the photographer and any other (non-players) from the field of play.
- Signal again, both verbally, and by indicating with the arm pointed towards the penalty mark, that the penalty is to be retaken.
- Identify the new penalty taker, and ensure that the goalkeeper knows who is retaking the penalty kick.
- Indicate to the players (by holding your whistle up in the air) that the penalty must not commence until you have signaled with a blow of your whistle.
- Ensure that all of the players are correctly positioned, and that all the non-players have left the field of play.
- Blow your whistle, and point your arm towards the goal to indicate that the penalty retake kick can now take place.

Question 21: When a player takes a penalty kick and the ball rebounds back into the field of play from a goal post or crossbar, is the same player allowed to put the rebound in.
If not what decision should be taken?

Answer 21: No.

Law 14 (The Penalty Kick) states:

Procedure:

The penalty taker must not play the ball a second time until it has touched another player

If the penalty taker touches the ball a second time before it has touched another player, an indirect free kick is awarded to the defending team.

End of Law 14 Procedure

So in this question, if the ball rebounds back into the field of play off the crossbar (and/or the goal posts) the ball is still in play, but the penalty taker is not allowed to touch it a second time until it has been touched by another player. If a goal is scored after he has touched it a second time - then the goal does not count. If the penalty taker does touch the ball a second time, then an indirect free kick should be awarded to the defending team. The free kick should be taken at the place where the penalty taker touched the ball a second time. If this was in the goal area, then the defending team can take the indirect free kick from anywhere within their goal area.

Question 22: As an attacking player runs up to take a penalty kick, he feints as if to shoot the ball into the bottom right hand corner of the goal, but instead, he taps the ball slightly forward to the left. An attacking colleague who enters the penalty area just after the ball has been touched and moved forward by his attacking colleague (the penalty taker), gains possession of the ball and dribbles it into the bottom left hand corner of the goal. Prior the penalty kick being taken, a defending player encroaches into the penalty area before the ball has been touched by the penalty kick taker. Should the goal be allowed to stand?

Answer 22: If a player from the defending team infringes (e.g. encroaches into the penalty area) before the ball has been touched and moves forward, an unsuccessful penalty must be retaken; but a successful penalty will be allowed to stand. Therefore, when the defending player infringed by entering the penalty area before the ball was kicked, the Referee rightly allowed the kick to take place (as he did in this case).
The successful goal must stand so long as no infringement by an attacking team player occurred.

The team taking the kick did not infringe any of the Laws. A penalty kick taker is allowed to feint in his run-up to take the penalty kick. For example - if during the run-up, the penalty taker deliberately shimmies whilst still running forward to kick the ball - the penalty should be allowed to continue. A goal should be allowed if the ball enters the goal. The greatest asset a penalty taker has is the ability to 'trick' the goalkeeper into diving the wrong way. The penalty kicker should not therefore be penalized for trying to achieve this by making a feint, so long as this in not done in an unsporting manner. The 'shimmy' whilst running forward, is no more illegal than the kicker looking to the left of the goal, and then shooting to the right!!

Players will always try and deceive the goalkeeper during their run up to the ball, as to the direction of the kicker's shot. This is quite normal, and is different to when a player deliberately stops his run, and restarts his run-up, in order for the goalkeeper to move one direction, before the kicker shoots in the opposite corner of the net - this is contrary to the spirit of the game, and any goal should not be allowed. The momentum of the penalty taker's run-up must be continual and can include shimmies and feints! But it must not stop and start.

As the eventual goal-scorer of the goal was outside of the penalty area and in the correct position before the actual penalty kick took place, he (along with any other properly positioned player) are allowed to enter the penalty area once the ball has been touched and moved forward by the penalty kick taker. As soon as the ball is touched and moves forwards, the ball becomes in play, the same as it does in any other kick restart. The attacking team-mate who scores the goal has just as much right to touch the ball as any other player. In other words, the penalty kick taker is within his rights to touch the ball slightly forward, and let a legal colleague run up and score. I have seen this done once in our English game many years ago. I think it was Rodney Marsh - but it was a long time ago. It is a perfectly legal move, allowed within the Laws.

Question 23: Can a player taking a penalty-kick back-heel the ball to a colleague, who goes on to score a goal? Should the goal be allowed?

Answer 23: No. The ball must he played forward. The penalty-kick must be retaken.

Question 24: Can a player taking a penalty-kick kick the ball forwards for a colleague to run to it and score?

Answer 24: Yes, provided that:

- (a) All of the players, with the exception of the player taking the penalty-kick and the opposing goalkeeper, are outside the penalty-area and not within 9.15m (10 yards) of the penalty-mark and behind the penalty mark at the time the kick is taken.
- (b) The penalty-kick is taken in normal time and the requirements of the Law are satisfied.

Question 25: What action should the referee take if when a penalty-kick is being taken, the ball strikes the goal post and/or crossbar and bursts?
Answer 25:

- (a) He should stop the game, asks for another ball and restart the game by dropping the ball,
- (b) If the penalty-kick is being taken in additional time (see Law 7) and the ball strikes the goal-post and/or cross-bar and bursts, the game ends. (FIFA)

Question 26: What should the Referee do if, he has given a signal to start the penalty kick, but before the ball is kicked, a colleague of the player taking the kick encroaches into the penalty-area and the Referee notices the offence but allows the kick to be taken and the ball rebounds from the goalkeeper, cross-bar or goal-posts to the player who has encroached and this player sends the ball into goal?

Answer 26: The Referee shall disallow the goal and restart the game with an indirect free kick.

Question 27: If a player takes a penalty-kick before the Referee has signaled, what action should the Referee take?

Answer 27: (FIFA) The kick must be retaken. The player shall be cautioned only if he takes the penalty-kick again without awaiting the Referee's signal

Question 28: When a penalty-kick is being taken and after the Referee has given the necessary signal, a teammate of the player who is taking the penalty-kick suddenly rushes forward and takes it instead. What action should the Referee take if the ball:

- (a) Leaves the field of play
- (b) Is pushed out of play by the goalkeeper
- (c) Is deflected by the goalkeeper, rebounds into play and the player who took the kick scores a goal?

Answer 28: (FIFA). In each of these cases, the Referee shall caution the teammate for ungentlemanly conduct. The penalty-kick should be retaken.

Question 29: A penalty-kick is being taken and all the players are in correct positions. The Referee gives the signal but an attacking player punches a defender whom he encounters outside the penalty area. The Referee notices the incident. What action should he take?

Answer 29: (FIFA). The Referee has enough time to delay having the penalty-kick taken to send off the offending player. Only after the offending player has left the field shall the penalty-kick be taken.

Question 30: A teammate of a player taking a penalty-kick enters the penalty area before the ball is in play and the ball is deflected by the goalkeeper and crosses the goal line over the top of the crossbar. What action should the Referee take?

Answer 30: (FIFA) The Referee should award a corner-kick.

Question 31: Do you agree with me, that it matters not a jot where the ball is in relation to the players when a foul is committed in the penalty area? So often you hear so called experts saying that a penalty shouldn't be awarded because the ball was running out of play, or the player had lost control.

Answer 31: A penalty can only be awarded if the ball is in play. That’s the first thing.

Secondly, as you say, it does not matter a jot where the ball is when the penalty offence is committed – so long as it is in play.

Only the other day, I gave a penalty under such circumstances. The ball was cleared up field from the penalty area, and as all good Referees, we do not instantly follow the ball if we believe that an incident is about to happen – I therefore kept my ‘beads’ on the tussling players in the penalty area. And lo and behold, the defender decides to measure the circumference of the attacker’s neck with his hands, before disposing him in a heap on the floor. Nice one. And I had seen it. Even better nice one! Loud whistle. Play stopped. Players looking at me quizzically because I was pointing to the penalty spot whilst the ball was somewhere near the halfway line.

"You can’t give a penalty Ref! The ball’s miles away".

"Oh yes I can"

And I did!