Question Number: 4310

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct

of , asks...

Regarding question/answer 4296 and the "high kick" situation. I think it is important to note that endagering an opponent or oneself is partly defined by the skill, age and possibly gender variables of a game. Really, after relative player safety, the determining factor when calling dangerous play should be if the opponent "let up" due to the dangerous component of the play. In the U-18 Select game mentioned, I probably would be watching the reaction of the opponent nearest the high kick before considering any stoppage of play (expecially in the box). Do I correctly remember ATR on this subject?

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

You are almost quoting ATR and I concur with what you say regarding dangerous play. It has to involve an opponent. I personally don't care where it occurs. I feel a foul is a foul and other than giving advantage, we should call fouls the same whether at midfield or in the PA.

Answer provided by Referee Stacy Kalstrom

I am in agreement with you both. Just because a boot is up in the air, doesn't make it dangerous. And whether it is actually dangerous at all depends upon the level and age playing as well as the "dangerous" play. This also applies to "playing the ball while on the ground"...Good Day