Blind spot

Referee · Joined: 22 Mar 2007 Posts: 1

During a recent WC3 game, a defender tackled violently a forward away from the play Mad

. I only saw the incident when the forward was on the ground in pain. During the second half, the same defender repeated the offence, which again left another forward on the ground. I could not see both offences, as in both occasions I was following the plays that were taking place elsewhere and away from the incidents Confused

. What could I have done to manage the situation better and thus, preventing this offense from happening again and again Shocked

?

Mark W · Joined: 14 Mar 2007 Posts: 24

This is exciting, the first question and answer on the new site! Very Happy

This is a scenario that I think all referees dread. Something happens away from the play and you don't see it. In order to answer your question I'm going to make some assumptions so bear with me.

The way I understand the question is that the attacker is dribbling the ball down the field. A defender challenges for the ball and clears the ball up the field. Out of instinct you follow the ball up the field through the air, taking your eyes off of the attacker and defender. Once the ball lands you look back and see that the attacker is on the ground and the defender is still standing. In this situation what you should try to do is after the defender clears the ball, keep your eyes glued to her. The ball will be in the air for a second or two and doesn't require your attention as it sails down the field. Keep your eyes on those two players and then you will see what happens, and be able to deal with it as required.

Now if the defender tackles the attacker while the ball is nowhere near then we have a problem. When you saw the attacker on the ground for the first time you should make a mental note of which defender is involved. Whenever that defender is on the field keep a closer eye on her. Even when she isn't near the play just take a quick look back when you can to make sure things are okay. And if you catch her doing this violent tackle when the ball is nowhere near I would certainly send her off.

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