[futuredoc2014]

Originally Posted by bainsey

Allow me to answer a few...


I used to think the same, but just forget about it. The FIFA folk decided a long time ago that once the clock starts, it doesn't stop. That's how it's done around the world, and that's what's accepted.

Somewhere, there's a YouTube video of a high school game where someone nailed a last-second shot (which I thought was late, but I digress), and comments from outside the U.S. thought it was ridiculous that there was a firm time limit. To them, that's not football, and we're in the minority on that one.

Now, since the clock never stops, here's a reason for time added on. Let's the half ends at 45:00. At 44:50 a striker goes on a breakaway and gets nailed by a defender 20 yards out. Ten running seconds is not enough time to set up a decent free kick, so if you can't stop the clock, you have to tack it on the other end. That's why they let plays "play out."


Apples and watermelons. In football, 22 guys are crammed into a much tighter space than 22 in soccer. While you do indeed get straightlined in soccer, like any other sport, you don't need seven guys. And yes, the four officials have unique responsibilities.


I completely agree. Someone tried to explain to me that other cultures don't view "owning up" in the same way we Americans do, but confusion is universal. That should change.

Actually, I'd prioritize something technological for goal review over reviewing every card. The missed goal in the England/Germany game is understandable -- I wasn't sure myself until I saw the replay -- but it can be solved with the assistance of the fourth official. I agree that cards should have some review process, but I think getting goals right comes first.

HS soccer used to have foul signals, but someone got to them and they abolished them. I work Fed games though with NFHS guys who still use the signals on unclear fouls, or with U-littles to help teach them. My rant is that of referees who don't try to take care of situations using conversation or understanding. Yes a card is needed at times, but just running up, flashing a card, and walking away does nothing to calm the situation or prevent fouls. It also just makes the player mad. Sometimes it is ok to have a short discussion with a player as to why they are receiving a card, or say a quick "watch those elbows" after a simple or trivial foul. Referees who are impersonal are generally disliked by teams. Players do however have respect for officials who will listen to players and explain things.