Well the Fiji Sun GP Batteries National League has started with double header at each venue. Patrons enjoy the game of football every week.
Lot of demand has been put on the referees where they officiate week in week out especially Western and Northern referees. So far, I am very happy that all referees has been doing very well. No major complains received so far. Crowd turn out has been very encouraging as well. Referees fitness level is also good bearing in mind about the weather condition. It is very hot during the day especially officiating at 1 pm. I must thank all the referees for doing a wonderful job so far.
Southern referees are not officiating at national level but they continue with their training. All grounds are closed in South so I will appoint them when we have matches at Lawaqa Park.
The Field Of Play
Soccer fans has asked me to give the dimensions of the field of play.
Dimensions – National level
Length (touch line) : Minimum 90 m [100 yards]
Maximum 120 m [130 yards]
Width (goal line) : Minimum 45 m [ 50 yards]
Maximum 90 m [100 yards]
All lines must be of the same width, which must be not more than 12 cm (5 inches).
International Matches
Length : Minimum 100 m [110 yards]
Maximum 110 m [120 yards]
Width : Minimum 64 m [ 70 yards]
Maximum 75 m [ 80 yards]
Goals
A goal must be placed on the centre of each goal. The goalposts and crossbar must be made of wood, metal or other approved material. They must be square, rectangular, round or elliptical in shape and must not be dangerous to players.
The distance between the posts is 7.32 m (8 yards) and the distance from the lower edge of the crossbar to the ground is 2.44 m (8 feet).
Questions and Answers
Q 1. As a goalkeeper is throwing, releasing or kicking the ball into play, an opponent intercepts
it before it touched the ground. Is this permitted?
Ans. No, it is an offence to prevent the goalkeeper throwing, putting into play or releasing the
ball with his hands. The throwing, putting into play or releasing the ball with his hands and
kicking the ball is considered a single action.
Q 2. At a penalty kick is it permitted for the kicker to kick the ball forward so a team-mate can
score a goal?
Ans. Yes, as long as the procedures for penalty kicks have been followed.
Q 3. When can the referee penalize a foul?
Ans. Only when the ball is in play.
