You Make The Call – Episode 27 Context and Advantage

You Make the Call (YMTC) – The Quandary of Advantage

This YMTC episode explores the complexities of applying advantage, particularly in youth games. The discussion centers around when to allow play to continue versus when to bring the ball back for the original foul, especially when the advantage does not materialize as expected​YMTC #119.

Situation: Applying Advantage After a Dangerous Play Call

Game Context:

• U13 boys match
• Player A challenges for a high ball with a high kick near Player B (potential dangerous play).
• Referee allows play to continue (advantage), as Player B collects the ball and takes three steps.
• The referee also sees two attacking teammates open for a pass, indicating a promising attack.
• Player B does not pass but instead slows down, and the referee blows the whistle and brings play back for the indirect free kick (IDFK) for dangerous play.

Key Question:
“Did the referee correctly apply the advantage rule, or should the play have continued?”

Analyzing the Advantage Decision

Law 5 (Advantage Rule):

• Advantage should only be applied if it benefits the team that was fouled.
• If advantage does not materialize “within a few seconds”, the referee should stop play and award the original foul.

1. Did the Advantage Materialize?

• Yes (initially): Player B collected the ball and took three steps without being immediately challenged.
• No (ultimately): Player B failed to use the advantage effectively, slowing down instead of passing.

2. Should the Referee Have Brought the Play Back?

• In professional/adult matches: The referee would likely not bring the ball back because the advantage was given, and Player B’s decision-making was their own responsibility.
• In youth matches (U13): The referee has more discretion to balance development and fairness.
  • If Player B was unsure how to use the advantage, bringing the ball back serves as a learning opportunity.
  • However, if the delay was purely a poor tactical decision, then bringing it back is giving the team a second chance unfairly.

3. Was the Coach’s Argument Valid?

• The coach was correct that if the player has already taken three steps with the ball, advantage has been realized.
• The argument against calling it back is that it is not the referee’s job to compensate for a player’s bad decision-making.
• The counterpoint is that in youth games, allowing for a “teachable moment” may be acceptable.

Best Practices for Applying Advantage in Youth Games

1. Set Clear Advantage Expectations Early
   • Players, especially younger ones, may not fully understand advantage.
   • A quick “Play on!” followed by “Use it!” can help guide players toward making the right choice.
2. Watch for Immediate Attack Progression
   • If the team immediately moves forward with purpose, let play continue.
   • If hesitation occurs, consider bringing the ball back quickly before further play develops.
3. Youth Development vs. Strict Interpretation
   • In pro or adult matches, once advantage is played, there’s no second chance.
   • In youth games, if the player was genuinely confused, bringing the ball back might be justified.

Final Takeaways: Advantage in Different Game Contexts

1. Advantage must materialize quickly—if not, stop play and bring the ball back.
2. In adult matches, Player B’s decision-making determines whether advantage was used properly.
3. In youth games, referees may consider the educational benefit of calling the play back if confusion is evident.
4. Clear communication (“Play on! Use it!”) helps guide younger players to take advantage of advantage.

This episode highlights how advantage is not just about the letter of the law, but also about game management, player experience levels, and creating a fair and controlled match environment.

Last Updated on March 12, 2025 by Frank