Expert: John Cummings - 5/4/2009

Question
Hi John -
During our game yesterday, a hard foul (which resulted in a direct kick) was called about 25-30 yards from the goal with our ‘wall’ set up just ahead of the 18 yard box.  One of our players inadvertently hit the ball with his hand while jumping to block the shot (his hand was never above his head or extended in a deliberate manner) and the ref immediately red carded him.  The only rule that would seem remotely close is one of FIFA’s seven offenses: “deliberately touching the ball with a hand in order to prevent a goal or to deny an obvious goal scoring opportunity.”  However, it wasn’t a goal or a clear goal opportunity.  We had a 6 man wall up and there was a keeper in goal…there’s no way that applies.  I tried explaining this to the ref, but he threatened me with a yellow (even though I’m the Captain and the only one who pulled him aside for an explanation).  Was I wrong here?  Being a former ref myself, I would’ve given him a yellow because I consider it being unsporting for causing unfair advantage…and award the team another direct kick…but a red?


Answer
Unlike high school, USSF does not allow captains to discuss calls or obtain an explanation from the referee.

From what you say, it sounds as if the referee may have made a mistake.  To commit what is commonly called a "hand ball," the player must deliberately handle the ball.  If the motion was a reflexive movement, it should not be a foul.  It must be deliberate.

Furthermore, from what you say, I don't see how this was an OBVIOUS goal scoring opportunity.  It probably should not have been a red card.  Of course, the referee may describe what happened a bit differently.

I hope the rest of your games go well and everyone has fun on the pitch.