Question Number: 12896

Law 9 - The Ball in and out of Play 5/27/2006

RE: Select Under 12

David of New York, New Jersey United States asks...

on a corner kick, can the referee stop play after the kick is taken and on its way in the goal?

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

The referee may stop play anytime he or she wants to. For example, a player appears seriously injured inside the goal box but the corner has already been taken. The referee might decide to stop play while the ball is still in midair. Also, the game is over when the referee decides it is. While I would never recommend any sane referee ending a half or game while the ball is in flight, it is perfectly legal to do so.

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Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi David,
While I could not recommend stopping play to end a match on a corner kick with the ball on its way into the middle of the penalty area IF I was going to stop play for the end of the game I likely stop before the corner kick is taken.
If I notice any fouling going on in the PA or any escalation of misconduct that requires immediate stoppage the whistle will go as needed . Cheers

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Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

Play may be stopped at the referee's discretion for whatever reason the referee chooses. There can be no mistake in this. There are times it is far better for the referee not to stop things, but if he feels the need it is within his right to.

Regards,

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