Question Number: 27337

Law 10 - Method of Scoring 4/22/2013

RE: rec Under 13

pete of vancouver, wa usa asks...

We've had two refs count a goal for a soccer ball deflected straight down off the top of the crossbar (but not in the goal). Can you point me to the rule on that? Thanks!

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Pete
Law 10 states that ' A goal is scored when the whole of the ball passes over the goal line, between the goalposts and under the crossbar, provided that no infringement of the Laws of the Game has been committed previously by the team scoring the goal.''
In your scenario both officials determined that the ball hit the underside of the crossbar and crossed over the goal line when it bounced down. In these situations the spin of the ball can bring the ball back into play.
Here is an example of a goal that was not awarded because it was 'unseen' by the officials
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZfxairfXg8

Answer provided by Referee Jason Wright

Hi Pete,

These are very difficult scenarios for any referee. Even with a neutral assistant referee who is directly in line with the ball these can be difficult to get right. Without that assistant, it's even harder.

A goal is scored when it has wholly crossed the goal line - and in your situation, the referee needs to make a decision. When the ball bounced down, did it wholly cross over the goal line then bounce back out?

This is something I've seen happen plenty of times. I believe it's because striking the crossbar often puts backspin in the ball, allowing it to cross the line then bounce back out of the goal.

Bear in mind the ball only just needs to cross the goal line.

The referee should not award the goal unless he is certain that this is what occurred. While I'm not necessarily stating that the referee has this one correct, keep in mind that from the technical area you're in a terrible position to try and make this judgement; the referee should be much closer to be able to make a judgement here.

No matter what he gives, somebody will say it's wrong here.

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

World cup examples have shown errors by the referee crew in deciding whether a goal has been scored. The laws require that all of the ball cross all of the goal line, between the goal posts and below the cross bar.