AboutCody Gaines Expertise I can answer almost all questions pertaining to the laws of soccer. I can answer questions pertaining to USSF, FIFA, and AYSO. However, I am not so familiar with high school soccer. High school soccer follows their own rules and not FIFA law (but I may know the answer or I will find out the answer just expect a short delay). I also can answer any questions that present referees have pertaining to assessments, moving up grade levels, and/or how to deal with spectators (and much much more). So if you are a player, spectator, coach, or referee and have a question about soccer ask me a question and I will either know the answer or ask my colleagues. The more coaches, players, spectators, and referees who understand the Laws of the Game the more enjoyable and fluid the game of soccer will be.
Experience I have been a referee for 6 years now. I hold credentials with USSF and AYSO. I am an instructor for entry level referees and advanced referees. I serve as a board member for a referee association. I am a member of KSRA (Kern Soccer Referee Association) Calsouth. I have been a player for 10 years. I am also a mentor/assessor for referees.
Organizations KSRA
Calsouth
AYSO
Section 10
Education/Credentials USSF Referee
AYSO Referee
Assessor/Mentor
Instuctor
Player
Awards and Honors I am the youngest instructor in my section
I have officiated:
State Cup
National Cup
Far West Regional
Question In today's game (AYSO U-14), the goalkeeper took possession of the ball outside the penalty box from an attacker's long pass, dribbled back into the penalty box, and then picked up the ball. The referee called handball in the penalty box and awarded a PK.
At the very most, I think the penalty should have been an indirect free kick, but I'm still not entirely convinced a foul was committed in the first place.
Can you comment on the laws/rulings that surround this situation?
Answer Hi Richard,
Sorry for the late reply I was at a soccer tournament this past weekend. In response to your question, from the information you have given me the referee was incorrect in his or her decision. No where in the laws does it say that this is not a legal play by the goal keeper. It is completely legal by the laws of the game for the goal keeper to dribble the ball back into his or her penalty area and pick it up (as long as the ball was not deliberately passed back by a teammate of the goal keepers). Law 12 deals with fouls and misconduct and nowhere in this law or any where else does it say this is illegal. You see this type of play done at all levels especially the professional level.
