Penalty Area Calls & Crew Chemistry
This YMTC episode examines the importance of crew communication, trust, and handling penalty area decisions effectively. The discussion focuses on when an AR should assist a CR with a potential penalty decision, how to develop strong referee chemistry, and the dangers of vague pre-game instructionsYMTC #119.
Situation: AR1 Witnesses a Foul in the Penalty Area, But the CR Says Play On
Game Context:
- Adult match, Team A down 2-0 in the first half.
- Defender clearly used his forearm to push the attacker down in the penalty area.
- CR had a clear view of the incident and shouted, “No! Nothing there! Keep playing.”
- AR1, following pre-game instructions, did not raise the flag but made eye contact with the CR to express concern.
- At halftime, the crew discussed the incident, allowing the CR to reflect and adjust for the second half.
Key Question:
“Should AR1 have intervened, or was it correct to follow the CR’s decision?”
The Importance of Pre-Game Clarity on Penalty Area Calls
- Avoid Vague Instructions Like “Give Me First Crack At It”
- A CR saying this without further explanation leaves ARs unsure of their role.
- What happens after the first crack? Should ARs raise the flag, wait for eye contact, or only step in if the CR hesitates?
- Establishing a Clear Protocol for AR Involvement
- Example of a Strong Pre-Game Instruction:
- “If you see a foul in the PA, do NOT flag immediately if I make a clear ‘play on’ signal. If I hesitate or look unsure, be prepared to assist. If you are absolutely certain I’ve missed a penalty-worthy foul, hold eye contact and give me a discreet signal. We’ll talk at halftime if needed.”
- Example of a Strong Pre-Game Instruction:
Two Schools of Thought on Penalty Calls
| Approach | Explanation |
|---|---|
| 1. No Autopsy, No PK | If there is any doubt, no penalty is given. The game should not be decided by a controversial call. |
| 2. A DFK Foul Outside the PA = A PK Inside the PA | If the same foul would be called anywhere else on the field, it should be called in the penalty area as well. |
- The CR in this scenario followed the “No Autopsy, No PK” approach.
- AR1 correctly followed pre-game instructions but also made sure to communicate at halftime.
Crew Chemistry: Trust, Eye Contact & Communication
- Pre-Game: Setting Expectations
- The CR should tailor their pre-game talk based on AR experience levels.
- ARs need to know how to handle PA decisions, mass confrontations, and directional disagreements.
- In-Game: Non-Verbal Communication
- Eye contact and body language are crucial in penalty area decisions.
- ARs should be confident but not overstep their role.
- Halftime: Honest Conversations
- A strong CR seeks input from their ARs to improve second-half officiating.
- Reflections at halftime help the crew adjust game management.
Final Takeaways: Managing Penalty Area Calls & Crew Chemistry
- Avoid vague pre-game instructions like “Give me first crack.”
- ARs need clear guidelines on when and how to assist in the PA.
- Referee crews must establish strong communication and trust.
- Pre-game talks, eye contact, and halftime discussions improve decision-making.
- The two penalty philosophy approaches (“No Autopsy, No PK” vs. “A DFK Outside = PK Inside”) shape officiating styles.
- Crews should agree on their approach before the match.
This episode reinforces the importance of teamwork, clarity, and adaptability in high-pressure match situations.
Last Updated on March 12, 2025 by Frank