Question Number: 35890

Mechanics 2/26/2025

RE: Under 18

Issy of hereford, United Kingdom asks...

What happens if a goal is scored as the lights go out? If the ball is heading towards to goal (in the air) and the lights go out before the ball is seen to enter to goalmouth, does the goal still count?

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Issy
Thanks for the question.
It’s a judgment call based on timing. If it is absolutely certain that it is a goal with zero hope of the ball being played by a defender or goalkeeper and clearly seen by the referee a goal award is fairly likely. If there is a hint of uncertainty then I doubt any referee would allow the goal. If play is halted before the ball crosses the goal line then no goal will be awarded.
It will also depend on the level of the game and if VAR is present. If it is show that play was not stopped and the ball crossed the line before or just at the light failure the goal most likely could be awarded. If the video shows uncertainty I believe a goal will not be allowed.
It is going to be a very rare event and one that most referees are not going to have to deal with.
Having said that the lights went out in the England V Spain Women’s game at Wembley recently. It plunged the pitch into darkness with limited to no visibility! If it can’t be seen no decision such as a goal award is going to be made.
Some modern stadia have light dimming spectacles AFTER a goal. Yet the goal is clearly seen and scored.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Issy
reminds me of the good old days when night fall was upon us and the car headlights ringed the FOP! lol A referee would apply common sense! Pitch dark and aways from goal likely not. Almost in, waist height, no keeper, middle of the goal, likely yes! If it was a deciding goal or the match was concluded as a decision on a fact of play the referee decision would likely stand even if they tried to protest. Cheers