Question Number: 28817

Law 11 - Offside 10/5/2014

RE: Amateur Adult

Alan Shepherd of Danderhall , Midlothian Scotland asks...

When 2 players are clear of the defense, 1 with ball, 1 without. What pass/es can player with ball execute for a goal scoring opportunity.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Alan
There are two ways to be in an onside position when the ball is touched by a team mate. One is to have two opponents between the players position and the goal line. The second is to be level or behind the ball.
On a breakaway the first option is not available as there is generally only one opponent, the goalkeeper, present. So that leaves the 2nd option which is for the player without the ball to stay level or behind the ball which allows the player to become involved in active play. Once ahead of the ball he is in an offside position.

Answer provided by Referee James Sowa

Alan,

The attacker could play the ball in any direction for the goalscoring opportunity so long as the other attacker is level with or behind the ball when it is played.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

HI Alan,
The key for a pass in these situations is for the player receiving the pass to be behind or even with the ball at that last touch/pass by the team mate .
Why it is difficult, is the player passing often slows down and uses an outstretched leg whereas the receiving player tends to be leaning forward and accelerating.

Look at this video and you will see what I mean. A good goal is called back. I knew it was a good goal because the announcer said the AR was correct in calling it off. lol

http://matchcenter.mlssoccer.com/matchcenter/2014-08-16-new-england-revolution-vs-portland-timbers/details/video/22997
I believe the AR was incorrect in flagging but you can see why it is difficult to gauge it correctly. Remember PLAYABLE BODY PARTS includes the striding leg and foot as well as the leaning head which if CLOSER to the opposing goal line than the ball places the receiver in an offside position. In the video the lean of the head is even with the ball in my opinion and if I saw that I would not flag. Easy to say from the slow motion couch but it why it is REPEATEDLY stressed when in DOUBT do NOT wave it about!
Cheers