Judging Deliberate Handball: A Referee's Guide

Judging Deliberate Handball: A Comprehensive Guide for Referees

As a referee, accurately judging whether a handball is deliberate is crucial. These decisions can significantly impact the game, leading to penalties, free kicks, and even goals. This guide will provide you with a detailed understanding of Law 12 and how to apply it in various match situations.

Key Takeaways:

* Deliberate handball requires intent; consider the player's movement towards the ball, distance, and reaction time.

* The position of the hand/arm is a key factor, especially whether it makes the body "unnaturally bigger".

* Focus on observing the incident closely and consider all factors before making a decision.

Understanding Law 12: Handball Offences

Law 12 of the Laws of the Game outlines the offences related to handling the ball. It's essential to understand the specific wording to make accurate decisions. The Law states that a direct free kick is awarded if a player:

* Deliberately touches the ball with their hand/arm, including moving the hand/arm towards the ball.

* Gains possession/control of the ball after it has touched their hand/arm and then scores in the opponents’ goal or creates a goal-scoring opportunity.

* Scores in the opponents’ goal directly from their hand/arm, even if accidental, including by the goalkeeper.

Key Considerations for Deliberate Handball

Several factors must be considered when determining if a handball is deliberate:

1. Movement of the Hand/Arm Towards the Ball: Did the player move their hand or arm towards the ball?
2. Distance Between the Opponent and the Ball: Was the player close enough that they had little time to react?
3. Position of the Hand/Arm: Was the hand/arm in a natural position for the player's movement, or was it making their body "unnaturally bigger"? This is a critical element.
4. The Nature of the Contact: Was the contact a deflection or a clear, controlled touch?
5. Expectation: What would a reasonable person expect the player to do in that situation?

Analysing the Player's Intent

Determining a player's intent is often the most challenging aspect of judging handball. Referees cannot read minds, so you must rely on observable actions and circumstances.

Factors Suggesting Deliberate Handball

* Clear Movement Towards the Ball: If a player extends their arm towards the ball's path, it suggests intent.

* Unnatural Arm Position: If the arm is extended away from the body, making it a larger barrier, it's more likely to be deliberate.

* Gaining a Clear Advantage: If the handball clearly prevents an opponent from gaining possession or making a pass, it points towards intent.

Factors Suggesting Accidental Handball

* Close Proximity: When the ball is kicked or passed from very close range, it's less likely the player could avoid contact.

* Natural Arm Position: If the arm is close to the body and in a natural running position, it's less likely to be deliberate.

* Reactionary Movement: If the player is reacting to the ball unexpectedly, it's less likely to be deliberate.

Practical Match Scenario Examples

Let's examine some common match scenarios and how to apply these principles:

1. Defensive Wall Scenario: A player in a defensive wall raises their arm above their head as a free kick is taken. The ball strikes their arm. Decision: Likely a penalty. The arm is in an unnatural position, making the body bigger and blocking a potential shot.
2. Close-Range Shot: A player shoots from close range, and the ball hits a defender's arm. The defender has little time to react. Decision: Unlikely to be a penalty. The proximity suggests the handball was not deliberate.
3. Player Sliding: A player slides in for a tackle, and their arm is outstretched for balance. The ball hits their arm. Decision: This is a challenging one. Consider whether the arm position was necessary for balance or if it was extended to block the ball's path. If the arm is clearly extended outwards, it's more likely a penalty.
4. Attacker Controlling the Ball: An attacker controls the ball with their chest, and it then bounces up and hits their hand/arm. They then score. Decision: No goal. Law 12 states that a player cannot score with their hand/arm, even if accidental.

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