Question Number: 26294

Law 8 - Start and Restart of Play 5/5/2012

RE: Adult

ken of diego martin, trinidad asks...

After a goal is scored, does the referee have to check with the 2 goal keepers before blowing the whistle to resume play?

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Ken
No it is not necessary for the referee to check that the goalkeepers are ready after a goal. One assumes that as the conceding team has the kick off that it will only kick off provided that it's own keeper is not injured or on the ground as a result of the goal. The defending goalkeeper as he has not been involved in play is expected to be ready for play.
Perhaps a quick scan of the field of play to see that all is in order is helpful and to prevent any problems that might arise particularly at underage.

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

The ref should scan the field to be sure everyone is on their own half. Part of that would also be looking at the goalkeepers. But there is no need to ask if the goalkeeper is ready (you don't even have to do that at the beginning of the half, but many refs do). Players are responsible to be in position ready to play when the game is ready to restart.