What is Offside for Real!

[Ed Hickland]

Originally posted by Jim S
Ed, the difference is that the definition in this case is just that , a definition. It doesn't define what being in the NZ illegally is. The later rule does that.
Some of the definitions have rules attached to them. And that's why we're always trying to get people to read, read, and re-read Rule 2. It's also where a lot of the mistakes in application of rules occur, because people don't get the ground floor down and have only assumptions to build on. Not jumping on you about this, just like to get a plug in for studying Rule 2 whenever possible.

[Edited by Jim S on May 20th, 2004 at 03:16 AM]

I am all in favor of reading and understanding Rule 2. Just like reading the law it gives the basic understanding of the rules or law (soccer has laws not rules).

So much is left to interpretation and that often changes or is misread.

As for encroachment, the definition does nto agree with the rule. Rule 2-8 starts encroachment with the ready for play while 7-1-6 starts encroachment with the center placing his hands on the ball. The obvious intent is to enforce encroachment from the time the center places his hands on the ball. Therefore, the definition should be amended to agree with the rule.