Question Number: 28706

Law 11 - Offside 9/7/2014

RE: Adult

usman moh'd egede of keffi, nasarawa nigeria asks...

A goalkeeper saved a ball that is about going out, an attacker who is in an offside position came and scored the goal, will that attacker be picked for offside?

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi there Usman Moh'd
thanks for trusting us to answer your question

We need more information. As a referee when you present a question to us it is always a good idea to frame it in the same way you might have to write a referee report, It might seem inconsequential to some but properly prepared written reports, on facts regarding play, formulate the entire basis of understanding when review committees have to go over situational circumstances that they HAVE NOT nor EVER will SEE!

Was the keeper inside the goal area, penalty area, outside the penalty area? Was this a rebound after a save of a shot on or at goal? Was the keeper only stopping the ball from leaving the field away from goal? Did he run over to a ball near the goal line away from his goal to save a corner kick from occurring or over by the touchline to save a throw in from being awarded? Was the keeper outside his penalty area with the ball at his feet? Did the incident occur inside the penalty area and the keeper used his hands holding the ball?
Did he simply disregard the offside positioned attacker was nearby and placed the ball back on the ground or dribble it a bit not sensing the attacker's proximity? What was the offside player doing prior to the ball reaching the keeper? Was there plenty of time for the keeper to have control and uncontested possession?
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I hope you understand the importance of highlighting the aspects that make up a situation we can not see but must imagine based on your description.

If there is no offside infraction prior to the keeper achieving a controlled possession of the ball all offside restrictions to the opponents are now lifted as the last touch of the ball is effectively his own!

So can we rely on you for an update?

cheers

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Usman
The answer will depend on whether the ball rebounded or deflected off the goalkeeper from a save. It makes no difference if the ball is going wide or not as in a save the goalkeeper may not be aware of this.
If it rebounds or deflects then it will be called offside when the player in an offside position touches the ball through gaining an advantage while in that position.
If the ball is deliberately played by the goalkeeper as distinct from a save then offside is reset.