TOUCHLINESTOUCHLINESThe Magazine of the Sutton Referees’ Society

www.suttonreferees.co.ukOctober 2010

Simeon says…

C o n t e n t s2 Simeon Says…

3 Editor’s Notes

3 From the Chair

4 Sutton’s Super Refs

5 Captions Please!

6 ..in the Referee’s OpinionYour thoughts, questions and comments.

14 Interview with a RefereeThis month’s subject – Roger Pink.

15 A lesson from the World CupCourage & Consistency – Jim de Rennes.

16 Our Man in South AfricaTom Ellams’ trip to the World Cup.

17 Target Setting for RefereesAn article by Jim de Rennes.

18 Barrie Gale – 15 Years a RefereePresentation by Les Edwards (Surrey FA).

19 Check the NetSnippets from the World Wide Web.

21 Tim Stone’s Puzzle PageMaximum Yellow Card Count before Abandoning a World Cup Game.

22 The Wisdom of Steve BennettJim de Renne’s report on Steve Bennett’s visit to Kingston RS.

23 Just for LaughsJokes and Funnies.

24 Society Contacts

25 RA Delegates’ MeetingNotes from Meeting of 27th September.

26 MinutesFrom the Meeting of September 9th, 2010

28 Dates for Your DiaryUpcoming Events.

Dear All,It was good to see a large turn-out for our first meeting, especially as many of our members were involved in FA Youth Cup games.

Thank you to all those who attended, although I counted more heads in the room than actually signed the book. Could I remind all to sign in, especially if you don't want to miss out on a possible FA Cup Final Ticket at the end of the season.

Congratulation to Barrie Gale for receiving a Long Service Award, which was presented by Les Edwards of Surrey FA.

This month we have the one and only Jim De Rennesas our guest speaker. Those who know Jim will know what a wonderful and enthusiastic speaker he is and for those who don't know Jim, it will be well worth the attendance. You will not be disappointed..!!

Hopefully we are now all into the swing of the new season and you have a few games under your belts. Remember, if you have any match incidents from your games you wish to air, our editor will be only too glad to put them in Touchlines.

Also, for those who may feel they need a bit of advice or guidance on their own game, please do not hesitate to ask one of our experienced members - including myself -who will be only too willing to assist. Attending the meetings is a great place to do this. How often do we go out alone to officiate, an incident happens and you ask yourself, "Could I have done anything different to prevent this?" Help is on hand if required.

As always, the Committee are looking for suggestions so please let anyone know your thoughts.

I look forward to seeing you all on the 14th October at Gander Green Lane.

SimeonTOUCHLINES is published by the Sutton Referees’ Society.Editor: Mike CoenEmail: mikecoen@blueyonder.co.uk

The reproduction of articles and news is welcomed by the Society. They would, however, like to receive a copy of those publications which reproduce any of our articles, either in whole or in part.

The opinions expressed in TOUCHLINES merely reflect the views of the authors and are not binding in any way on the editor or any official.

Front cover:Don't mess with John Ryan.Sutton Utd -v- Staines Town : Pre-Season 2010

2

3

Hello Everyone!!Phew!! Our biggest ever issue. I’ve had to put in four extra pages to fit in all the questions and responses on all aspects of the game. Thanks for that and long may this sort of input continue.

Lots of plum appointments on the Super Refs page. Great to see so many Sutton referees getting on these County and FA games.

Also three great articles from Jim de Rennes, our guest speaker at October’s meeting. Please try to get down to Sutton Utd for that, as Jim has always proved both entertaining and educational.

Just got back from reffing my best game of the season so far. A Morden & District Premier game that was a feast of pacey, skilful, hard-tackling, end-to-end football. Enjoyed every minute and had players from both sides shaking my hand after it had finished 2-1.

There’s always one, though. A player from the losing side approached me with a frown and said, ‘those decisions all seemed to go one way today, ref’. I wonder just how it would have looked from pitch-side if I had followed my initial instinct to plant a boot firmly into his backside.

See you on the park,or at Gander Green Lane.

Mike.

Editor’s Notes From the ChairDear Colleagues,

Just want to say thank you to all who turned up at the first meeting of the season last month. It was good to see so many old faces and a few new ones too.

I do hope your season has started in a positive manner and no injuries or unsavoury match incidents have befallen you.

As ever the first meeting of the season was a sounding ground on how to approach games and how to implement any law amendments. As is usual with such debates, you will never get 100% of the members agreeing on what is for the best. That is just human nature. Discussion is a good thing as long as you listen to the other person's point of view and do not dismiss it without thinking it through.

Please keep your observations and comments coming into Mike Coen for inclusion in Touchlines, as it is your magazine and it is good to see many different people getting involved as Mike can't do it all himself.

It is also the time of the season when County and league games are at their height, so do ensure you know what protocol to follow in the event of a drawn game after 90 minutes. Does it go to a replay? Extra time and then penalties? It is not always obvious so, if in any doubt, please do check with the appointing officer. Don't become one of those officials who is caught out - there are always one or two who are every season.

The other thing you must ensure you do after every game is to complete any reports (misconduct or otherwise) in a

prompt and complete manner. Make sure the forms are fully completed and that any marks you have to award to clubs / club linesmen / assistants are correctly entered. Do you mark out of 100 or 10? Make sure you know and if you don't, then make sure you find out.

It's just left for me to say that I look forward to seeing many of you at the next meeting on the 13th and that I hope the season continues to be an enjoyable one.

Kindest regards,

Barrie (The Not so New Chair)

SuttonSutton’’s Super Refss Super RefsJohn Kasey

FA Vase - First Round Tunbridge Wells -v- Hailsham Utd (Assistant) Sat 4th SeptFA Vase - Second Round Binfield -v- Bethnal Green Utd (Assistant) Sat 18th Sept

Simeon PotterFA Cup - 1st Qualifying Round Folkstone Invite -v- Horsham (Assistant) tbaFA Cup - 2nd Qualifying Round Carshalton -v- East Thurrock (Assistant) Tue 28th SeptFA Cup – 3rd Qualifying Round Didcot Town -v- Basingstoke Town (Assistant) Sat 9th Oct

John RyanFA Vase - 2nd Qualifying Round Lordswood -v- Southwick Sat 18th SeptFA Cup - 2nd Qualifying Round Dartford -v- Lowestoft (Assistant) Sat 25th SeptFA Cup – 3rd Qualifying Round Dover -v- Cambridge City (Assistant) Sat 9th Oct

Mike CoenFA Youth Cup – 2nd Qualifying Round Carshalton Athletic U18 -v- VCD Athletic (U18) (Assistant) Wed 6th OctChelsea Academy Chelsea U18 -v- Arsenal U18 (Assistant) Sat 9th OctSurrey Saturday Intmdt Cup Round 1 Sheerwater (Res) -v- Farleigh Rovers (Res) Sat 9th OctSurrey Sunday Senior Cup Round 1 Gate FC -v- Merton Royals FC Sun 12th Dec

Barrie GaleFA Vase - 2nd Qualifying Round Fisher -v- Norton Sports (Assistant) Sun 19th Sept

Peter CrichlowFA Cup Binfield -v- Crawley DownFA Vase Greenwich Borough -v- NewhavenFA Trophy Thamesmead -v- Heybridge Swifts (Assistant)Surrey Senior Cup Lingfield -v- Colliers Wood (Assistant)Surrey Premier Cup Leatherhead -v- Chessington & Hook

4

CAPTIONS PLEASE !!!

H a v e y o u a n a n a m u s i n g c a p t i o n f o r t h e p i c t u r e ?

Email your thoughts to me and I’ll put the best efforts in the next issue.

5

Mike Coen:- I forgot my cards again, so let's settle this the old-fashioned way!- That piercing won't come out, you say? Let's see, shall we?

John Martin:- You call me a lemon again and I a-smash your face!

Simeon Potter:- One more tackle like that and you won't be just getting a yellow card…!!- Talk to the fist; the face ain't listening!!

… a n d L a s t M o n t h ’ s O f f e r i n g s

David Laughton:- Mess with me and it's lights out!! Are we clear? Comprendeee?

Barrie Gale:- You toucha my booby, I smasha da face.

.…in the Referee’s Opinion….Your Thoughts, Questions and Comments

6

Tom Ellams gets the ball rolling, suggesting: "either avoid cautioning the player for a second time, or make sure you give him the second yellow when he's still well on the pitch and then don't allow the sub on. I would avoid any possibility for a conflict like that as it's only going to cause problems and impact on match control."

Peter Sullivan agrees with Tom once the card has been shown, saying: "As the player is still on the field of play, and has been sent off, the sub will not be allowed to enter the field of play. Team have to play with just ten men."

You are the Ref (by Keith Hackett and Paul Trevilion):

In the 85th minute of a semi-final, a team struggling to hold onto a single-goal lead make a substitution. The player being replaced - already on a yellow card - strolls off the pitch deliberately slowly, despite your instructions to hurry up. As he is about to cross the touchline, you show him a second yellow, for time-wasting, followed by a red.

Can the sub still come on and the team continue with eleven men?

Keith Hackett's answer matches the responses from the members: "You have dismissed the player: The substitute can't come on. He can only come on to replace another team-mate."

You are the Ref (by Keith Hackett and Paul Trevilion):A goalkeeper rushes to the edge of his area and safely collects the ball just ahead of an opposing forward. However, an inrushing defender, trying to help, accidentally collides with the keeper,knocking him - still holding the ball - onto the pitch outside the penalty area. The opposing forward immediately shouts for a red card, as the keeper has handled outside his area.

What do you do?

Simeon Potter starts us off with: "I would award a free kick to the attacking team - as the GK has handled outside the box - but I would not issue any cards as this would not have been denying a deliberate goal scoring opportunity, as the goalkeeper already had control of the ball and was pushed outside by his own defender."

Tom Ellams regards this unusual situation as "Very difficult!" and adds: "I wouldn't know what to do. I'd probably issue a caution and give a direct free kick; you can't possibly give a red for that, as there's clearly a defender covering and technically its not really deliberate hand ball."

Peter Sullivan agrees with Simeon, saying: "Don't issue a red card, as this was an accident, but award the opposing side a direct free kick."

Continued on page 7...

7

...continued from page 6

Mike Coen asks: "Could the handball be considered to be deliberate, as the keeper did not intend to leave the area?" and thinks, "Yes - as the keeper could have released the ball once he realisedhe was crossing the line. So, a direct free kick for handball."

He also thinks that "The forward has been watching too much television!! A red card is only applicable in this case if an obvious goalscoring chance has been denied; the idea that a keeper handling outside his area automatically results in his being sent off is a fallacy. Even cautioning the goalkeeper in these circumstances would be extremely harsh."

before adding: "On the other hand, the opposing forward has definitely shown unsportsmanlike behaviour in his requesting a red card and, depending on just how strident his demands were, he may well be the one finding himself on the wrong end of a yellow."

David Laughton scratches his head and says: "Good point!! NO idea!! I would guess and say, as it is his own player and not a foul, indirect free kick to opposing team?" He isn't confident of that answer though, adding: "Whoops - probably wrong!!! Direct Free kick?" before handing "over to the experts to answer."

He does have a fall-back position, with the tongue-in-cheek suggestion that we could take the "easy option…Didn't see it!!!!"

Daniel Rutskelis (Kingston RS) wins the prize for the most complete answer we have ever received to a You-are-the-Ref question:

"In Section 2 of the LOTG - entitled 'Additional Instructions for Referees . . .' - there is the following sentence (see 'Handling the ball'; page 92):

'Outside his own penalty area, the goalkeeper has the same restrictions on handling the ball as does anyother player . . . '

In the case presented, the goalkeeper has handled the ball outside his area. It doesn't matter why, e.g., his defender knocked into him. Conversely, if the defender knocked the goalkeeper over the goal line, the referee should award either a goal or a corner kick. In this case, a direct free kick should be awarded for handling the ball.

The law says, 'the same restrictions on handling the ball as does any other player'. You as the referee would have to decide if further disciplinary sanctions should be applied:

- The referee can caution a player for unsporting behaviour if he 'deliberately and blatantly handles theball to prevent an opponent gaining possession'.

- The referee can send off a player if he prevents 'an obvious goal scoring opportunity by deliberatelyhandling the ball'.

Did either of the above two points happen? Just because a goalkeeper handles the ball outside his area, does not mean he will automatically receive a yellow or red card.

In the case presented, I would have to judge from where in the penalty area was he knocked out; how close was the defender and the opposition striker after the goalkeeper handled the ball; or had the attack broken down after the goalkeeper initially collected the ball? The overriding factor might well be the fact that he was 'knocked out of the penalty area' rather than a deliberate and blatant action to handle the ball. His initial deliberate and blatant action was to collect the ball inside his penalty area.

In this case, I would only award a direct free kick...and the next question is: Would I allow it to be taken quickly? And would the striker have enough football wits to think about taking a quick free kick rather than argue with the referee?"

continued on page 8...

8

...continued from page 7

Keith Hackett says: "Award a direct free kick to the opposition. Handling outside the penalty area does cause a lot of debate. People often think handling outside the penalty area is an automatic red; that's not true - it's only a red card if the keeper has denied an opponent an obvious goalscoring opportunity."

Matthew David has a question for the members:

When is a head too low or a foot too high to warrant a free kick (indirect)?

Tips please on how others assess these situations.

Lewis Gordon (Croydon RS) advises that the player putting his head down is at fault…or the player raising his foot…or something? when he says: "I think the question here is: Why would a player want to head a ball towards the floor, causing himself possible danger? This is why the 'indirect' free kick is awarded against that individual, and not the player that has his foot 'raised'.

Everybody knows that as soon as a player has his foot raised, going into a challenge, there is going to be a free kick awarded, regardless whether there is contact or not, as he is playing in a dangerous manner.

So I think in answer to your question - When is a head too low or a foot too high to warrant a free kick? - that you have to ask yourself the question: Why would a player, who is going to head the ball, want to put his head down towards the ground to head a ball?

It is a very wide open question that could be debated all night at the next meeting but, as we all know, each incident is different, and we have to look at each scenario in a different way. There is no 'If the foot passes a certain height this is a free kick' or 'If a player has his head down at a certain height that is an automatic free kick.'

Others may have different views, but that is why we always call these a debate!

Hope this helps and gets some other responses!"

Simeon Potter has a shorter (and somewhat clearer?) outlook, with: "My Stance on this is, irrespective of how low the head may be, the opposition player still has to have a sense of his surroundings and, knowing the player's head may be low, he must still have a duty of care towards that player."

Daniel Rutskelis (Kingston RS) provides another well-reasoned answer: "A high-foot challenge, where no physical contact is made to the opponent, comes under Law 12 as 'playing in a dangerous manner'. In Section 2 of the LOTG entitled 'Additional Instructions for Referees . . .' the following instructions are written (page 93):

'Playing in a dangerous manner is defined as any action that, while trying to play the ball, threatensinjury to someone (including the player himself). It is committed with an opponent nearby and preventsthe opponent from playing the ball for fear of injury . . .

. . . the action becomes an offence only when an opponent is adversely affected . . .

. . . playing in a dangerous manner involves no physical contact between the players. If there is contact,a different offence has been committed . . . '

As a referee, it is not a matter of the height of the foot, but rather the effect on play, and in particular, the effect on an opponent. Is there the threat of injury? Is the opponent prevented from

continued on page 9...

…continued from page 8

playing for fear of injury?

When I stop play for this offence, I try to remember to say, 'playing in a dangerous matter - indirect free kick' rather than 'high foot'. As most players don't know the laws of the game, they look at me with amazement as if to say, 'I didn't know there was such a law'. It also helps to silence all the shouts of 'high foot, Ref' which always seem to follow after you punish the first offence. I may shout back, 'not dangerous - play on', but more often I just ignore them.

It's important to remember to give the correct arm signal for an indirect free kick, because if you don't - and the opposition kick the ball directly into the goal - you are now in the deep stuff. You may have to bring your barrister on to explain your way out."

Mike Coen echoes some of the above when he says: "The Dangerous Play offence occurs when a player takes an action that is unsafe for either himself or another player without contact having been made. The mere fact that a foot is high - or a head low - does not in itself make the action unsafe.

There is no pre-defined boundary to just where feet or head may be positioned. A player kicking a high ball (I would say chest-height and above) is only a danger if an opponent is in a position to head it and has clearly not done so just because the foot is high; if you feel he was never about to head it in the first place, then an offence has probably not been committed.

Similarly, if a player stoops or dives to head a ball and you can be reasonably certain that an opponent did not challenge just because of the proximity of head to boot (I would be looking at below chest-height for this one) then it is the heading player who has offended.

A caveat to this. If a player is in the act of safely kicking a low ball and a player he clearly hasn't seen challenges with a very low head (coming from behind) and there is contact, I would still call the offence against the heading player. If the kicker has had ample chance to see the low head but takes the kick anyway and makes contact, then the free kick will be against the kicker - and probably a caution to boot (no pun intended).

David Laughton gives the shorter man's view when he says: "Head height? If you are a midget like me, I would say not a free kick. Karate kick at 5ft 7ish? Free kick."

9

Keith Glover says that he "Heard today that certain academies are teaching

the players to stand in front of free kicks" and he "would like members

feelings on this."

Rob Pizzy advises that we simply "manage it" and adds: "If the team plays the ball and the offending player is still in the way, caution him."

John Martin is similarly swift acting when stating: "One warning then caution - delaying restart by not retreating 9.15m. Soon stops this ploy."

Mike Coen agrees: "The law is clear: a player must be cautioned if he fails to retreat the required distance. As referees, we are normally reluctant to whip out cards where they can possibly be avoided and it is quite possible that some teams will be relying on this when advising their players in this way. I'm with John when advising give them one warning to let them know you will not be tolerating it, then it's up to them whether they wish to see a card or not."

Continued on Page 10….

…continued from Page 9

Daniel Rutskelis (Kingston RS) reminds us that it is not just free kicks where opponents need to respect a distance: "Here is a true story: I am refereeing a match in the Suburban league, and I award a throw-in to the blue team. A yellow team member stands right in front of the thrower. I yell from midfield, 'Move back, yellow'. He stands there pretending not to hear, and I yell again (a bit louder), 'MOVE BACK, YELLOW'. He still stands there and doesn't move. I blow my whistle, run over to him, take his name, and caution him for delaying the restart. Now this occurred right in front of the benches and all the subs, coach and trainer were on their feet in no small protest.

At the interval, the coach came up to me (I was with my two assistants) and tried to argue his point. I simply explained that the law says, 'all opponents must stand no less than two metres away from the throw-in. I yelled at your player twice, and he did not move away.' Off storms the coach and I asked my two assistants, 'Did you hear me yell at the player to move back?' Even the assistant on the opposite side of the pitch said that he heard me both times.

Now the funny point to this story is that in the second half, for every throw-in, the opposition players were 9 feet, or even 12 feet, away from the thrower. I didn't really notice it during the match, but my assistants brought it up when we were in the bar having our post-match debriefing. We all had a good laugh about it.

So…if coaches and academies are teaching their players to stand in front of the ball after a free kick is awarded, a few yellow cards should sort out the error if they don't move away. Here are two quotes in law, one for 'standing in front' and the other for 'preventing':

A player who does not retire to the correct distance when a free kick is about to be taken, or who stands in front of the ball when a free kick has been given against his team, in order to delay the restart and to allow his team to organise the defensive wall, must be cautioned under the appropriate section of Law 12.

If a player decides to take a free kick quickly and an opponent who is near the ball deliberately prevents him taking the kick, the referee shall caution the player for delaying the restart of play."

David Laughton asks: "You turn up at a match and all players are present except the away goal-keeper, who is running late. You need to start the match so the team want to start with 10 players and bring the keeper on when he arrives.

Is this allowed? and what would you do?"

Neil Sitch gives his opinion: "I would play and he could join later in an appropriate stop in play, as long as he is on the match registration card and that the opposition are aware. Again you are over the fewer than 7 players rule! Anybody can be a goalkeeper (though goalkeepers tend to think otherwise).

Incidentally I have already had a similar example last week. A team just named a straight eleven with no subs; I asked if the manager was sure. They started play and one guy went down with a groin strain. Immediately, the manager came over and said he was registered and could he play. I politely declined his request. Hard but fair!"

Keith Rodger says "I stand to be corrected on this one but I would allow the match to start (eight or more players on pitch) - with one of the ten players starting off in goal - and let the keeper come on to the pitch when he arrived. Subs should be named as normal if there are any."

Continued on page 11...

10

…continued from Page 10

Mike Coen echoes some of the above when advising: "There is nothing in law to prevent a team starting with ten players, even if they have substitutes available. However, there must be a clearly defined goalkeeper, so one of the outfield players would need to wear the goalkeeper's jersey.

Once the regular goalkeeper has arrived, he would be allowed to enter the field and take his place in goal, with the original goalkeeper changing his shirt and taking an outfield role. This change would only take place at a suitable stoppage in play and with the referee's permission. It would not count as a substitution.

Some competitions (e.g. Combined Counties League) need to be made aware of teams who have started a match with fewer than eleven players on the field, so that fact would need to be included on your match report to the league if such a rule were in place."

David Laughton also asks: "Can you give a player a red card after the final

whistle or do you just write it up in the match report?”

Mike Coen responds: "Both yellow and red cards may be shown, up until the point the referee leaves the field of play. For this reason, it is good practice to be the last off the field - unless players are remaining in situ to perform warm-downs, post-match team reviews, etc.

Once you have left the field, any further misconduct may be reported on a separate misconduct report but cards would not be shown for such incidents."

Keith Rodger agrees, saying: "Yes - at least I hope so - as I have given yellow and red cards after the whistle! Players can be yellow or red carded after the final whistle as long as the incident(s) take place on, or in close proximity to, the pitch. If the incident occurs, for example, in the changing rooms, then you cannot issue a card but should write a disciplinary report."

Neil Sitch is a little briefer, with: "You can give a red card after the final whistle but if it all went off in the car park then that is one for your report (and the local police dependent on severity!)"

Barrie Whittington has a scenario: "I was reffing a Youth game last season and I awarded a defensive free kick inside the penalty area. A defender prepared to take the kick. Whilst getting myself into position, I blew the whistle to restart play only to find the player re-positioning the ball with his hands. The opposing centre forward (who claimed was a qualified referee) said he handled the ball after my whistle and it should be a penalty. I cannot say with any certainty whether he handled it

John Martin advises: "The ball is not in play until it has left the penalty area. The whistle is only an indication that play can resume." He then suggests that the "opposing centre forward needs to attend one of the excellent courses provided by Sutton RS and re-sit his exam."

Mike Coen agrees: "The whistle is only a signal to restart play. Play itself does not restart until the ball has been kicked and has moved, so the defender had committed no offense and you were correct to ignore the penalty claims.“

Continued on page 12...

before, after or at the time of the whistle. I disregarded the penalty claim and allowed the free kick to be taken.

Was this the correct course of action?”

11

Neil Sitch has a question about handball: " Most handballs have been clearcut for me this season but hard/bobbly pitches are causing the ball to jump up occasionally.

If it is not deliberate but gives the attacker (or the defender) an advantage, should we blow and give a free kick to the opposition?“

John Martin advises: "In the spirit of the game you should not allow advantage from a handball even if not deliberate." He also acknowledges that this would be "tricky if incident is in the penalty area."

Daniel Rukstelis (Kingston RS) sticks to law but gives advice on how you may judge 'deliberate', when he says: "You have rightly phrased in your question 'it is not deliberate' which is the same wording used in Law 12, 'handles the ball deliberately'. The key thought for me, in this infringement, is that there must be intentional movement of the hand (or arm) towards the ball and not the ball towards the hand.

You have mentioned on a hard pitch the ball can often 'jump up' and therefore strike a player on the hand or arm. This is particularly true if the player has his arms in a natural position down at his sides. But despite the ear-shattering cries of 'Hand-ball, Ref', I often don't give these because I could not see any movement of the hand towards the ball.

The word 'advantage' in your question merits some renewed consideration on some of my past decisions and on my defining criteria for this infringement. In the laws of physics, if object A (a football travelling at speed) strikes object B (a player's hand or arm), it will deflect a certain distance away from object B (depending on the speed and angle of travel). It should not fall directly down to the base of object B (the feet of the player).

Maybe, as a referee, I need to be aware of not only the 'movement' of the hand or arm towards the ball but equally the 'control' of the ball with the hand or arm? Players control a pass by a cushioning action with the foot and this is a deliberate, intentional movement on their part. If a player's foot is stiff and not loose - and if his muscles are rigid and not relaxed - then the ball will deflect away, as if it hit a solid wall.

It could well be that some of the hand-ball infringements are not a deliberate movement to block the ball but rather a deliberate movement (a cushioning action) to control the ball! In this type of hand-ball, I could always address the player with, 'No player...you controlled the ball with your arm.' It would be just my luck that he would shout back, 'Yeah Ref...but it wasn't deliberate.' "

Mike Coen says: "Unlike most offences, hand-ball is only penalised if - in the opinion of the referee - it was deliberate. A defensive clearance may be struck hard at an advancing forward, bounce off his arm and into the goal and, provided the referee is convinced that the contact was completely uncontrolled, then there has been no offence and the goal should stand.When judging 'deliberate', also look out for the defender who spreads his arms wide - an 'unnatural position' - hoping to make himself bigger and provide a better chance of blocking the ball. A ball striking such an outstretched arm should also be judged as deliberate hand-ball, even if the defender is not facing the ball when it is struck.“

Continued on Page 13…

"The Brazilians were South American, and the Ukrainians will be more European."

Phil Neville12

Neil Sitch also asks: "If a keeper runs out of the area to launch the goal kick from hand down the pitch, when do we decide that this is handball as they have progressed too far out of the area?”

Mike Coen advises: “This is a difficult one to call – even when you have neutral assistants.

When refereeing on the parks, you are almost certainly going to be too far downfield to see clearly if such an infringement has occurred. In those situations, it is only repeated claims from opposition players that would bring it to your attention.

Obviously you cannot act solely on such claims but you may be able to get close enough to the keeper (at a stoppage for a defensive free-kick, for example) to be able to ‘advise’ him to watch his position at the drop-kicks.

Only if the claims continue – and you feel it is affecting match control – might you adjust your position slightly for a few such kicks and see if there might be a case to be answered.

With neutral assistants, you have an extra pair of eyes but, again, judging when the ball left the hand is not easy. As long as the keeper has let go of the ball before the ball crosses the edge of the penalty area, it matters not how far outside he may be before he kicks it.

Most referees advise their assistants to watch the first few and, if the keeper appears to be getting close, or you think he may be overstepping the mark, to call to him to ‘be careful of the edge’. If there is the slightest doubt, you should not call that he has carried the ball out, as the opposition will hear you and start demanding a free-kick.

If there is no doubt that the keeper has infringed – a clear yard or more – then the assistant should be flagging.

“Alex Ferguson is the best manager I've ever had at this level. Well, he's the only manager I've actually had at this level. But he's the best manager I've ever had."

David Beckham

"I'd like to play for an Italian club, like Barcelona!!"Mark Draper

"I took a whack on my left ankle, but something told me it was my right."

Lee Hendrie

"I couldn't settle in Italy - it was like living in a foreign country."Ian Rush

13

14

Interview with a RefereeInterview with a RefereeThis month’s subject: Roger Pink

Current Level: 5

Position in Referee Society (if any): None but Member since 1977.

How long have you been a referee? 34 years in January 2011.

What are the most prestigious games you have been involved with? Surrey County Junior Cup Final and three other County Final appointments.

What are your main refereeing memories (best and worst)?

Best memory - Plough FC vs Clapham Harps - Semi Final Sutton & District Challenge Cup. 3-2 to Harps; end-to-end football. Got everything right and then found out after the game that I had been assessed for what was then my Class 1.

Worst memory - Probably Culvers Sports vs Carshalton Old Boys. Player jumped to head a ball unopposed and fell, breaking his leg in three places. St Heliers Hospital 3/4 mile away and the ambulance took nearly half an hour. He was out for eight months.

One piece of advice for up -and -coming referees: Fitness aids concentration -Keep on the move.

Any other comments: Don't be afraid or shy to ask any refereeing colleagues for advice. Even after 34 years, incidents occur in matches which still have me thinking on the way home - Did I deal with that correctly? Always seek advice.

Next issue's nominated interviewee – Ryan O’Sullivan

What was it that led you to become a referee? To put something back into the game.

What is it that keeps you refereeing? Love of the game and - at 63 - a reason to keep fit.

What are/were your normal methods of game preparation and player communication? Pack and unpack my kit at least 3 times on a Saturday. Try to train at least twice a week. I very rarely communicate with players prior to a match. I have been around long enough and they know me.

One of the bravest decisions a referee can make is to order the retaking of a penalty kick from which a goal has been scored, when both teams are happy to accept the outcome of the kick.

All credit, therefore, to Guatemalan referee Carlos Batres for doing just that in the quarter final match between Paraguay and Spain in this summer's World Cup.

A LESSON FROM THE WORLD CUP:A LESSON FROM THE WORLD CUP:COURAGE AND CONSISTENCYCOURAGE AND CONSISTENCY

Jim de Rennes (Kingston RS)

Xabi Alonso scored from the spot-kick, but several of his team mates had encroached into the penalty area. The retaken kick was saved by the Paraguay keeper, Justo Villar.

So far, so good….Unfortunately, television producers were quick to replay a penalty kick taken by Oscar Cardozo for Paraguay just a few minutes previously. Casillas saved thekick, but several Spanish defenders were well into the penalty area when the kick was taken, and a retake should therefore have been ordered.

The credit due to Carlos Batres for his courage was wiped out by the fact that he had been inconsistent in his application of the Laws.

Whether we should apply common sense, and turn a blind eye to encroachment at penalty kicks unless the outcome is affected is another matter. It is perhaps advisable that, as far as possible, we should not surprise players with decisions no one expects, in which case Carlos Butres might have been better advised to allow Alonso's goal to stand, as he had Casillas's save.

We should all strive at all levels of refereeing, and in all aspects of the application of Law to be both BRAVE and CONSISTENT, while also, perhaps, allowing, on occasions, for a little common sense…..

"I can see the carrot at the end of the tunnel."Stuart Pearce 15

16

Our Man in South AfricaOur Man in South AfricaTom Ellams' trip to see the World CupTom Ellams' trip to see the World Cup

As we arrived at Heathrow bound for Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport, we were interviewed by the BBC and asked to give our opinions on how England would do. Naturally we were both incredibly over-optimistic - me saying Semis and my brother saying the Final.

Not being part of the England Supporters' Club, we didn't manage to get England tickets (despite numerous attempts) so settled for following Chile which, as it turned out, was better than watching England and we got to watch them play the likes of Brazil and Spain.

After Fabiano scored -v- Chile

Cape Town Green Point Stadium

Chile -v- Honduras

Netherlands -v- Uruguay

Brazil & Chile enter the Pitch

Whilst in Port Elizabeth for the Chile v Switzerland game, we met some English lads who had come down with some spare tickets; so, after struggling to stump up the cash for them, we went along to England's only win in the competition, against Slovenia.

The atmosphere at that match, it has to be said, was so much better than in any of Chile's games, with about 90% of the stadium in red and white...and naturally the win helped!

Fortunately, we avoided a trip down to Bloemfontein to see the Germany game and instead settled on tickets for the semi-final in Cape Town between Holland and Uruguay, sitting behind the goal where Van Bronkhorstscored the goal of the tournament.

We got back to Johannesburg on the day of the final and watched it in one of the huge fan parks, which was amazing.

Just unfortunate that whilst I hear it was 30°c in England all through June and July, it was about 15°c the whole time in the South African winter.

Other than that (and missing our flight home due to staying in the airport bar for too long) it was an excellent trip.

Target Setting for RefereesTarget Setting for RefereesJim de Rennes (Kingston RS)Jim de Rennes (Kingston RS)

The most important thing about setting targets is that it must be within your power to achieve them.When Alec Stewart first became captain of the England cricket team he was asked in a press interview whether he had set the captaincy of his country as a target. "No", he replied, because that was not something within his power to achieve.He was not responsible for choosing the captain, but he had set himself the goal of improving specific skills in captaining Surrey.

In the same way, a referee should set himself targets which will improve his performance on the field of play. Others will then decide whether or not he is to be promoted.

Simply setting the target of promotion is insufficient but working on the suggestions below should make us better referees.

This, in turn, will give us greater satisfaction and enjoyment from our work at whatever level we are operating.

ON THE FIELD OF PLAY

· Be as close to play as possible· Signal clearly and confidently· Vary strength and length of whistling as appropriate· Keep moving as you blow the whistle· Use dead ball time well· Extra concentration when play is in the penalty area· Talk to players if they want to listen· Deal with dissent as soon as it occurs· Get the first caution "right"· Let play flow if possible· Be consistent· Make best use of assistant referees· Forget controversial decisions until after the game· Smile (sometimes!)

OFF THE FIELD OF PLAY

· Be absolutely sure of the Laws

· Learn from watching other referees/assistants

· Respond immediately to all communications

· Complete and send misconduct reports within 24 hours

· Be as fit as possible (Training? Diet?)

· Be as fit as necessary for the appointments you accept

· Arrive in time to complete all pre-match requirements thoroughly, including check of players' equipment

· Make sure assistants understand your instructions

POSSIBLE REFEREEING TARGETS

17

18

Barrie Gale Barrie Gale -- 15 Year Award15 Year Award

Congratulations to chairman, Barrie Galewho has clocked up 15 years as a referee.Seen here being presented with his award by Les

Edwards of Surrey FA.

It was the most prized piece of silverware in European club football - but one night in a pub in the West Midlands, it went missing. Twenty-eight years later the story of how two teams of police officers played to win the European Cup can finally be told.

Very few people knew about the disappearance and subsequent recovery of this famous piece of football silverware in Sheffield. A secret kept for the last 28 years.

In May, 1982, Aston Villa were the kings of Europe, having just won the most prestigious club prize - the European Cup. The then 22-year-old Villa left back, Colin Gibson, along with midfielder Gordon Cowans, brought the gleaming trophy home after a one-nil victory against Bayern Munich in Rotterdam.

Gibson recalls how, in celebratory mood, the pair took the gigantic silver cup, which weighs up to 15kg, out of the boot of the car and took it into a pub.

"We used to go out and take the European Cup where we could to show it to the fans…and let them have their pictures taken with it," says Gibson.

19

Check the Net !!!Check the Net !!!Snippets pulled from the World Wide WebSnippets pulled from the World Wide Web

Who Stole the European Cup?Who Stole the European Cup?Spotted by Mal Davies on the BBC Website - 28th May, 2010

They were celebrating with supporters at the the Fox Inn in Hopwas, near Tamworth, in the club's native West Midlands.

West Bar Police station in Sheffield city centre.

"I remember the lad on the desk walked through to the

"Gordon and I had had a few drinks, and we were playing a competitive darts match, when someone turned round and said 'the cup's gone, it's been stolen'.

Folk'law'

"At the time you didn't really realise what was happening. All I can remember is dread and trying to block it out as if it didn't really happen."

To this day none of the players knew where the cup had disappeared to. But a collection of policemen on night shift 100 miles away in Sheffield knew exactly where it had gone.

Mick Greenough, was the officer on duty that night at

control room and said we've got a man at the front desk who says he's got the European Cup in the car. So off he trotted and next thing the swing doors go and there he is at the front desk with the European Cup, with claret and blue ribbons on."

Graham Wragg, then a 24-year-old constable, says they rang West Midlands Police to try to find out where the cup had come from, but they put the phone down saying they had a major incident on.

Puzzle

"So we rang back, and said we think we know what your major incident is… We said

Continued on page 20...

'Fake' Togo football team at Bahrain match being investigated'Fake' Togo football team at Bahrain match being investigatedFrom BBC Website - 14th September, 2010

…continued from page 19

'we think we've got the European Cup here, would that be connected to it?' There was a bit of a silence and they said 'we're coming to fetch it!'"

These football-mad young men had already formed their own team from the members of their shift. The chance was too good to miss and they decided to stage their own European Cup final - the prize being the feted piece of silverware itself.

They picked two teams in the middle of the night, in full uniform in the garage at the back of the station, and had their photographs taken holding the cup. In 1982 the only cameras readily available were those used by scene of crime officers, who it is believed took the pictures.

For 28 years this story has been kept a secret between those involved. It has only come to light now because the photographs were discovered at the station, which is being cleared out and closed down.

All these years the story has been met with disbelieved and treated as folklore at the Fox Inn near Tamworth, from where the cup vanished that night.

The pub's current manager, Robbie James Pimberley, confirms it was "a popular place for the Villa players back then".

"As you take over new pubs you get the histories… that was one of the first things I was told. I never knew what to believe. Now I know it's true. It's great to hear the Sheffield policemen played each other for the European Cup. It's what dreams are made of for young lads."

But one final bit of the puzzle remains. Who actually stole the cup? The pictures show a man standing next to the police officers, but his face has been rubbed out and no-one can remember who he was.

Nobody has been able to track him down, but there is a police station in Sheffield who would very much like to hear from him.

Togo's football authorities are investigating allegations that a fake national team played a match against Bahrain earlier this month.

Bahrain won the friendly match 3-0, but said they were surprised by the poor quality of the Togolese team.

Togo later said it had never sent its national team to play in the game, staged at the national stadium in Riffa on 7 September.

Togo's sports minister said he would ask Fifa to investigate.

But Fifa says it has not yet received any official complaint and so has not launched its own investigation.

The match took place as Bahrain prepares to play in the West Asian Football Championships, which begin on 24 September.

The Bahrain Football Association (BFA) said it had been arranged under all the usual official procedures, and through an agent they had known for several years.

"Everything seemed to be in order until after the game, when we began to hear that some people are wondering about these players and this Togo team."

continued on page 21...20

Neil Sitch says 10: "Well, the rule is fewer than 7 players so if you started with 11 you would have to lose 5 players (10 yellow cards)."

Barrie and Jamie Whittington jointly say 45: "All the players on the field of play each get cautioned (22). The complete set of substitutes for each team then get cautioned (14) Then one player from each team gets a further caution until four from each team has been cautioned and sent off (8). One further player gets cautioned and sent off and one team would have fallen below the required 7 to continue. Match abandoned (we hope)."

Mike Coen says 60: "I believe each side may name 7 substitutes. In a crazy game, the referee takes umbrage with dissent from the benches and finds cause to caution each and every substitute (14). The dissent continues, so further yellow cards are issued until all substitutes have received a second, followed by a red (14). In the meantime, every player on the pitch also manages to earn himself a yellow card (22). Lessons are not learned and the cautions continue, now followed by reds, until both sides have had four players cautioned for the second time (8), leaving seven players on each side. Finally, two of the remaining players have an argument and grab at each other - not enough for straight reds but easily enough for cautions. The referee shows both their second yellow card (2) before issuing reds and abandoning the game. 14 + 14 + 22 + 8 + 2 = 60."

David Laughton does not give a number but says: "I am not too sure here whether there are separate rules for this? I would guess and say no - normal FIFA rules. Yellow Cards are irrelevant; reds take priority pending number of players per team shown. Less than 7 players results in match being abandoned."

?? Tim Stone's Puzzle Page ???? Tim Stone's Puzzle Page ??

How many yellow cards could be issued at a World Cup matchbefore the game is abandoned?

…continued from page 20

"We ourselves were surprised when we heard this," a BFA spokesman told the Gulf Daily News.

He said they had received all the official documentation for the match, including the players' passports.

The spokesman rejected reports that the match was organised by a fake football agent, saying the agent in question had always been "100% alright" and was now

co-operating with the investigations.

Togo's Sport Minister Christophe Tchao told the Jeune Afrique magazine nobody in Togo had "ever been informed of such a game".

"We will conduct investigations to uncover all those involved in this case," he said.

Bahrain's head coach, Josef Hickersberger, told the Gulf

Daily News the match had been a wasted opportunity for the team to practise before the West Asian championships.

"They were not fit enough to play 90 minutes - the match was very boring," he said.

"Basically it was not good for us because we wanted to get information about the strength of our team, especially playing with many of our professionals."

" Leeds is a great club and it's been my home for years, even though I live in Middlesboro.“Jonathan Woodgate 21

With just a handful of video clips Steve stimulated group and plenary discussion which helped all of us clarify our thinking about dealing with particular match play situations. The whole session was both thoroughly entertaining, enjoyable and constructive.

The Management of Penalty Kicks: The first requirement is to deal with the goalkeeper, moving him back to his line. Then the identification of the kicker and the placement of the ball can be dealt with. Lastly, before signalling for the kick to be taken, a check can be made that all

players are outside the penalty area and behind the ball. It is important that no players are behind the referee at the taking of the kick.

The Playing of Advantage: Possession is not advantage. Will there be an advantage for the team, not just for

the player with the ball? In the attacking third, a free kick in the middle of the pitch is probably better than

possession on the wing. There can never be an advantage in the defending third. Never play advantage on a red card offence unless the ball is about to be tapped

into the goal. Some teams (perhaps with big attackers) would always rather have free kicks than

advantages. In general, if players don’t complain about the way you are playing advantage, you

must be getting it right.

Corner Kicks: Require the referee’s presence, his voice and his proactive management of the

situation. Intervention before the kick can help avoid problems as the ball arrives. Changing position before and as the kick is taken can improve the viewing

position. An initial position around the “D” and looking in is best. Attacker in front of Goalkeeper needs to be monitored.

In General: Expect the unexpected. Only give major decisions if you are certain. Take immediate and clear control of attacking free kicks around the edge of the

penalty area. Be Strong. Be Brave.22

The Wisdom of Steve BennettThe Wisdom of Steve Bennett(Kingston Referees' Society (Kingston Referees' Society -- September 2010)September 2010)

Jim De Rennes (Kingston RS)Jim De Rennes (Kingston RS)

Just for LaughsJust for Laughs

23

The last of the World Cup funnies - sent in by Dave Solly and Simeon Potter

CONTACTS - 2010/2011

President Grant Sheavyn

Vice President John Kasey 020 8394 2968

Vice President Peter Watson 020 8393 9989

Chairman Barrie Gale 020 8644 3825

Vice Chairman David Laughton 020 8288 9275

Hon. Secretary Simeon Potter 020 8661 1555

Hon. Treasurer Keith Rodger 020 8786 7410

Training Officers Peter Watson 020 8393 9989

John Ryan 020 8337 6248

John Martin 020 8641 0501

R.A. Delegates John Kasey 020 8394 2968

Keith Glover 020 8786 0545

Events Coordinator David Laughton 020 8288 9275

Magazine Editor Mike Coen 020 8715 4678

Supplies Officer Mike Ewing 020 8644 7225

Retention Officer John Ryan 020 8337 6248

Committee Member Charles Jeffery 020 8641 2611

Sutton United Liaison officer Barrie Gale 020 8644 3825

Hon. Auditors TBA

24

R A DELEGATES MEETINGMonday 27th September, 2010

1. Brian Fish had asked for conference voting to be returned to him by a set date butonly four Societies replied.

2. List of membership not returned in time.

3. List of Society Officers also not returned in time.

4. Due to the above, a Chairmen and Secretaries' Forum will be held on 25thOctober (provisional).

5. The new RA offices are up and running and will be officially opened by Jack Taylor& Howard Webb.

6. RA Draw tickets will revert to 50p per ticket.

7. Top prize in the RA Draw will now be a car.

8. This year's five-a-side will be on 9th January at Woking, from 3pm to 6pm.

9. Membership: 200 referees have not renewed so far but the overall total is up, at1,189 - Levels 1 to 8: 1,026 - Level 9: 76- Level 10: 44- Assoc. Members 43

10. Safeguarding children - no change at present.

11. Black, or very dark blue, kit: Teams have to change or game will not be played.This will be brought up at next league reps' meeting.

12. Sadly, Wimbledon Referees' Society has now folded.

25

Sutton & District Referee SocietyMinutes of Meeting that took place on 9th September, 2010at Sutton Utd FC - 23 members and 1 guest in attendance

ChairmanBarrie Gale opened the meeting and welcomed everyone back after the summer break.

Apologies for AbsenceReceived from: Keith Slaughter, Matthew Westlake, John Kasey, Robert Pizzy, Ryan O'Sullivan and Wayne Ingram.

Minutes of Previous MeetingBarry asked if there were any matters arising from last month’s minutes. None were raised.This was proposed by Grant Sheavyn and seconded by Roger Pink.

Matters ArisingNo matters arising.

Hon Secretary's Report/CorrespondenceSimeon offered congratulations to all those who gained promotion. The ones known were:

Tom Ellams: 6 to 4Matthew Westlake: 5 to 4Rob Pizzy: 6 to 5

Last year’s FA Cup Final: John Martin & Chris Vagg enjoyed their day out.

The Secretary made the following mention of correspondence:

• Referee newsletter: Main points - Important dates & Discipline writing.

• FAMOA no longer exists and been replaced by the new formed RA-FA (see September's Touchlines)

• County hand book: If anyone has not received theirs, please contact County Office.

• All should have received the Surrey newsletter in August.

• The Surrey County RA-FA (FAMOA) 2010 Event will be on the 11th November at Sutton Utd. Guest speaker will bePremiership referee, Phil Dowd.

• Closed dates: When closing dates with a league also close with County and vice-versa when accepting Countyappointments.

• Small Sided football training event on Tuesday 21st September. (see Surrey Newsletter)

Hon TreasurerSutton & District Referees Society Treasurer's Report as at 1 September, 2010

Opening balance at 1 April, 2010 £1,434.34Income since last report £1,163.50Expenditure since last report £ 918.24Society's Balance at end of period, 1/3/10 £1,679.60

Notes: Major items of expenditure for period were: -- Cost of FA Cup Final tickets £132- RA Membership fees £522

Income from membership fees so far stands at £775.00, RA Prize Draw brought in £42.50 and we have had money back from other Societies towards the joint event costs of £100.00.

Membership: Stands at 38 x full members of which 8 are youth members

continued on page 27…26

…continued from page 26

Training Officers ReportPeter Watson satated the next course will commence on 20th September, the course will be 2 nights a week for 4 weeks. There will also be another course in November.

Supplies OfficerCurrent Stock £146.51 - Cash £20 with a balance of £166.51.Mike stated there is a delay in some orders which was down to the headquarters move of office.

Magazine Editor

Mike stated that the 1st edition of the season had been sent out and thanked the members for their input, adding that, as always, any further material will be gratefully received. Responding to a query from Barrie Gale, Mike assured the members that the 'Interview with a Referee' feature would be revived from the October edition.

RA Delegates' Report

Keith Glover reported that the Society had won a trophy for being the Society with the largest membership increase in Surrey. The next delegates' meeting is 28th September.

Retention Officer's ReportJohn Ryan advised that he will shortly start to contact last season's members that have yet to re-apply for this season.

Events Officer's ReportDavid Laughton was not present.

Any Other BusinessNone.

The meeting closed at 20.30.

DATE CHAIRMAN

27

Dates for the DiaryDates for the Diary

October, 2010

Wed 13th @ 7:30pm Sutton Society Meeting @ Sutton Utd FC

November, 2010

Wed 10th @ 7:30pm Sutton Society Meeting @ Sutton Utd FCThur 11th FAMOA IST

December, 2010

Wed 8th @ 7:30pm Sutton Society Meeting @ Sutton Utd FC

January, 2011

Sun 9th @ 3:00pm Referees' 5-a-Side Tournament @ WokingWed 12th @ 7:30pm Sutton Society Meeting @ Sutton Utd FC

February, 2011

Wed 9th @ 7:30pm Sutton Society Meeting @ Sutton Utd FC

March, 2011

Wed 9th @ 7:30pm Sutton Society Meeting @ Sutton Utd FC

April, 2011

Wed 13th @ 7:30pm Sutton Society Meeting @ Sutton Utd FC