Unsportsmanlike gestures par excellence, will the excessive waste of time by goalkeepers with the ball in their hands one day disappear? Though, initiatives have been launched to put an end to this situation, in youth competitions (under 21) in Malta adn England, the newspaper reveals The times.
With a simple principle: if the time limit is exceeded, a corner kick is called for the opponent. Or after eight seconds, compared to the current six. The referee’s mission is to count down the last five seconds by raising his hand.
“The deterrent effect exists”
“The data that has emerged so far is very, very interesting. The number of corners awarded is almost non-existent, which tells us, considering the data, that the deterrent effect exists. “This is exactly what we want it to be at this stage,” Patrick Nelson, chief executive of the Irish Football Association and a member of the IFAB board, told the Times. the world arbitration body.
Today the goalkeepers therefore have six seconds. But in reality the abuses are legion. Not to mention that the referee very rarely gives a yellow card and almost never gives an indirect free kick at the point of the error. However, that’s what international Football Association Board (IFAB) Law 12..
The Times indicates that in Italy, which is about to enter this testing phase, the authorities will propose a throw-in instead of a corner. But the effect seems less dissuasive.
How are youth football leagues in different countries adapting to new rules regarding goalkeeper time-wasting?
Interview with Patrick Nelson: Tackling Goalkeeper Time-Wasting in Football
Q: Patrick, thank you for joining us today. There seems to be a growing concern about goalkeepers wasting time with the ball in their hands. What recent initiatives have been implemented to address this issue?
A: Thank you for having me. Yes, the problem of excessive time-wasting by goalkeepers has become a significant concern in football. Recent initiatives in youth competitions,specifically in Malta and England,aim to tackle this head-on. The new rule states that if a goalkeeper exceeds the time limit of eight seconds—an increase from the current six seconds—the opposing team is awarded a corner kick. This change intends to create a deterrent effect to minimize time-wasting.
Q: How effective has this approach been so far?
A: The early data we’ve collected is promising. We’ve observed that the number of corners awarded under this new rule is almost nonexistent, wich suggests that the deterrent effect of these regulations is indeed working as intended. It’s an encouraging sign that goalkeepers are adjusting their behavior in response to the new guidelines.
Q: You mentioned the role of referees in this process. Can you elaborate on that?
A: Absolutely. The role of the referee is crucial. When implementing this rule, referees are tasked with counting down the last five seconds by raising their hands. This visual cue not only alerts the goalkeeper but also informs the players and fans, adding to the intensity and urgency of the moment. It’s all about transparency and clarity in officiating.
Q: what has been the ancient context of time-wasting by goalkeepers, and why has it become such a pressing issue?
A: Historically, goalkeepers have faced little accountability for delaying play with the ball in their hands. Despite the regulation that allows them only six seconds, the reality is that many take liberty with this rule, resulting in frustrations for players and spectators alike. Referees rarely enforce penalties such as yellow cards or indirect free kicks for violations, creating a culture of laxity that many stakeholders in football want to change. The new initiatives are a significant push towards establishing a fairer and more dynamic game.
Q: we’ve heard that Italy might be following suit with different ramifications. What do you think about their approach of substituting a corner kick with a throw-in if the time limit is exceeded?
A: ItalyS proposed change is engaging, but I am concerned it may not have the same dissuasive impact. A corner kick tends to be a more tangible penalty for the goalkeeper’s infringement, typically resulting in a scoring opportunity for the opponents. in contrast, a throw-in may not provoke the same sense of urgency or consequence. It’s essential that whatever changes take place are designed to maintain the integrity and excitement of the game.
Q: For our readers, what advice would you offer for those involved in youth football regarding these new rules?
A: My primary advice would be to embrace the changes positively. Coaches, players, and officials need to understand the purpose behind these regulations—to promote fair play and a faster-paced game. Educating young players about the rationale and benefits will help create a culture of sportsmanship and respect on the field. additionally, staying updated with changes from the International Football Association Board (IFAB) will ensure everyone is on the same page and prepared for these rulings in future competitions.
Q: Thank you,Patrick. This has been incredibly insightful. what do you foresee for the future of football in terms of time management and gameplay?
A: the future holds exciting potential. As we continue to refine the rules and incorporate technology, there’s an opportunity to create a game that emphasizes fairness, speed, and excitement. If we can effectively manage time and minimize disruptions caused by tactics like time-wasting, we enhance the spectator experience and the integrity of the sport overall. It’s a step towards improved game management that comprehensively benefits players, officials, and fans alike.
Q: Thank you for your time and insights, Patrick. We look forward to seeing how these initiatives develop in the coming years.
A: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure discussing this vital aspect of football with you.