Soccer Rules On An Inbound Pass To The Goalie

In 1992, FIFA made a significant change to the Laws of the Game. In an attempt to speed up play and minimize time-wasting tactics, soccer's governing body introduced the so-called back-pass rule. Inbound passes to the goalkeeper instantly became more risky and less viable as a time-wasting method.

Backpass

On paper, the backpass rule is simple. According to FIFA, the rule is enforced if the goalie touches the ball with his hands after it has been deliberately kicked to him by a teammate. If the goalkeeper does handle the ball from a backpass, the referee awards an indirect free kick. The backpass rule also applies if the goalie receives the ball directly from a throw-in taken by a teammate. In a backpass situation, the goalie must either kick the ball or not touch it at all.

Exceptions to the Rule

A goalie can handle the ball if it is passed to him from the head or chest of a teammate. He can also pick up the ball if it was accidently kicked toward him by a teammate. For example, if a defender slices a clearance or the ball deflects off his foot, the referee will not award a free kick if the goalkeeper then handles the ball. This last aspect of the rule can lead to disputed decisions. The referee must decide whether the backpass was accidental or deliberate. In unclear circumstances, the referee tends to favor the defending team.

Trickery

If the referee believes a defender is trying to circumvent the backpass law using trickery, he can penalize the player for unsporting behavior. For example, if a defender deliberately flicks the ball up into the air and then heads it back to the goalkeeper, the referee will award an indirect free kick.

Foul Procedure

In the event of a backpass foul, the opposing team takes the indirect free kick from the spot where the goalie handled the ball. The free kick could be just inches from the goal line. If the free kick is more than 10 yards from the goal line, the defending team can form a wall 10 yards from the free kick position. If the free kick position is less than 10 yards from the goal line, the defending team can form a wall on the goal line itself.