You Make The Call – Episode 21 Ball Between The Knees

Ball Between the Knees & Dangerous Play

This YMTC episode breaks down a unique in-game scenario involving a player holding the ball between his knees after a challenge. The discussion focuses on the correct foul call, restart procedure, and considerations for player safety​YMTC #21.

Situation: Player Holds Ball Between Knees After Falling

Game Context:

• MLS Next U13 boys match
• Opening minutes of a high-pressure game
• Incident occurs directly in front of the bench of the “actor” (Player A)
• Player A falls during a fair challenge, and the ball ends up between his knees.
• Player B stops his challenge to avoid injuring Player A.
• Player A then stands up with the ball still between his knees.

Key Considerations:

1. Did Player A’s actions significantly impact play?
   • If no advantage is gained, then play should continue.
   • If Player B stops playing due to Player A’s position, the referee must determine whether this constitutes an offense.
2. Was Player A guilty of Dangerous Play (DP)?
   • Dangerous Play is defined as an action that prevents an opponent from playing due to fear of injury.
   • Since Player B stopped challenging, this suggests Player A’s actions created a dangerous situation.
   • Referee’s Decision: If Player B was still in playing distance and intended to challenge, an Indirect Free Kick (IFK) for Dangerous Play is the correct call.
3. Could This Be Considered Unsporting Behavior (USB)?
   • If Player A intentionally manipulated the ball with his knees to delay play or mimic handling, this could be USB.
   • However, USB is typically cautionable (YC), and in this case, DP is the more appropriate call.
4. Restart Decision:
   • Dangerous Play = Indirect Free Kick (IFK)
   • Unsporting Behavior = Direct Free Kick (DFK) if called instead

Analysis & Referee Development

Percy’s Assessment (Learning Moment):

• Correctly identified Dangerous Play as a possible foul.
• Incorrectly stated that the restart could be a DFK—Dangerous Play is always an IFK.
• Acknowledged the importance of the referee’s discretion.

Why This Matters in Assessments:

• Restart errors are a major factor in referee evaluations.
• One incorrect restart in a formal advancement assessment can lead to failure.
• Referees must be confident in distinguishing between IFK and DFK fouls.

Final Takeaways: Dangerous Play & Restart Decisions

1. Understanding Dangerous Play (DP):
   • A foul occurs only if an opponent is prevented from challenging.
   • Restart is always an IFK at the location of the infraction.
2. Recognizing Unsporting Behavior (USB):
   • If a player intentionally manipulates the ball in an unfair way, this can be USB.
   • Restart is a DFK if called for USB instead of DP.
3. Referee Growth & Learning:
   • Being open to feedback and willing to improve is key to referee advancement.
   • Precision in restart decisions separates competent referees from elite ones.
   • Every game is an opportunity to refine decision-making and game control.

This episode highlights the nuances of game management, player safety, and restart accuracy, reinforcing how even “simple” scenarios require in-depth analysis and proper decision-making.

Last Updated on March 12, 2025 by Frank