Restarts Advanced Law 14

Encroachment on Penalties: Retake Rules

Correct restart procedure is part of match control: location, timing, and infringements can change outcomes.

Narek Smbatyan
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Key Takeaway
Details (location, timing, infringements) change everything.

Overview

Restarts have small details that create big controversies: location, timing, and infringements can change outcomes.

How referees judge it

Confirm the restart type, the correct location, and whether any infringement impacts the next decisive action.

VAR angle

VAR usually only gets involved when restart infringements directly affect a goal/penalty/red-card situation within protocol.

Common debate points

Many stoppages feel ‘technical’ — but they prevent unfair advantages.

VAR Guidance

VAR usually only gets involved when restart infringements directly affect a goal/penalty/red-card situation within protocol.

Decision Checklist

  1. Identify the restart type (FK, PK, throw-in, GK, corner).
  2. Confirm correct spot/line rules (boundaries count).
  3. Check for infringements (encroachment, ball in/out, quick restart conditions).
  4. Did an infringement directly affect a goal/penalty/red card situation?
  5. Apply the correct restart and any discipline.

Common Misconceptions

Myth
Restart details don’t matter.
Reality
Small details can decide goals and penalties.
Myth
VAR checks every restart.
Reality
VAR checks only in protocol situations.
Myth
Quick free kicks are unfair.
Reality
They’re allowed if conditions are met.
Myth
Encroachment is never punished.
Reality
It’s punished when it affects outcomes.
Myth
Location is always obvious.
Reality
Lines and camera angles can deceive.

Sources

  • IFAB Laws — Law 13 Free Kicks
  • IFAB Laws — Law 14 Penalty
  • VAR Protocol — restart-related checks