Question Number: 19952

Mechanics 9/15/2008

RE: Rec, Competitive

Ken of Redding, CA USA asks...

This question is a follow up to question 19881

I agree that the goalkeeper's handling should by indicated by the AR with the flag up and a waggle.

Now, if the Referee allows for the 'advantage' I am thinking that the AR should drop the flag and resume correct position with the play. Once the offside attacker puts the ball in the goal the AR should NOT make his sprint up the line but instead hold his position (preferably at or near the corner flag), make eye contact with the Referee and possibly even give a discreet wave over to let the Referee know that a discussion is required. Under no circumstances should he allow the kickoff happen until that discussion takes place.

Would this be proper mechanics?

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

[Q#19881 regarded a goalkeeper coming outside the PA and handling a pass from one attacker to the other on a breakaway. The AR recognized that the intended receiver was in an offside position; the ref did not. The AR flagged for the handling foul as the referee indicated advantage.]

If the referee insists on advantage, shouting out 'Advantage, Play On!', the AR should probably quickly put the flag down, switch hands, and then give a flag straight up for offside and hold his position on the line.

This really isn't offside, because the advantage the referee anticipated didn't materialize - there is no advantage in kicking the ball toward an offside positioned teammate. But by giving the signal, the referee can indicate once again that play should be stopped. Once that happens, he can sort out with the referee that the proper restart should be a direct free kick outbound for the keeper's handling.

The AR standing at attention following an apparent goal, without holding the flag up, is an indication that someone other than the shooter did something (likely offside). This gives the ref time to evaluate the situation, and speak to the AR for clarification if needed.