Soccer is a game of rules, and understanding those rules is essential to playing the game well. One of the most critical rules in soccer is the throw-in. A throw-in is awarded to the opposing team when the ball goes out of bounds over the sideline. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the rules for soccer throw-in.
Basic Rules for Soccer Throw-In
A soccer throw-in occurs when a player from one team throws the ball back into play after it has gone out of bounds over the sideline. The fundamental rules for soccer throw-in are as follows:
- The player taking the throw-in must have both feet on the ground and keep them on the ground throughout the throw.
- The ball must be thrown from behind and over the player’s head using both hands.
- The thrower must face the field of play and must not turn their back to the field.
- The ball must enter the field of play before it touches the ground.
- The soccer throw-in must be taken from the point where the soccer ball went out of bounds.
- If the player taking the throw-in fails to throw the ball correctly, the throw-in will be awarded to the opposing team.
- If the player taking the throw-in touches the ball before it enters the field of play or throws the ball into their own goal, a corner kick will be awarded to the opposing team.
- If the player taking the throw-in touches the ball a second time before it has been touched by another player, a free kick will be awarded to the opposing team.
Advanced Rules for Soccer Throw-in
While the basic rules for soccer throw-in are relatively straightforward, there are a few advanced soccer throw in rules that players should be aware of:
- Offside Position: If a player in an offside position receives the ball directly from a throw-in, a free kick will be awarded to the opposing team.
- Delay of Game: If the player taking the throw-in delays the restart of play, the referee may award a free kick to the opposing team.
- Ball Goes Out of Bounds Over the Goal Line: If the ball goes out of bounds over the goal line, a goal kick is awarded to the defending team. If the ball goes out of bounds over the sideline, a throw-in is awarded to the opposing team.
- Substitutions: Players may not substitute during a throw-in. They must wait until play has restarted.
- Encroachment: All opposing players must be at least two yards away from the point where the throw-in is taken. Failure to do so may result in a caution or even a sending-off.
Throw in Strategies
Throw-ins can be an essential part of a team’s strategy, particularly in the attacking third of the field. Some common throw-in strategies include:
- Short Throw: The player taking the throw-in may throw the ball a short distance to a teammate, who can then dribble the ball into the field of play.
- Long Throw: A player with a long throw-in may attempt to throw the ball into the opposing team’s penalty area, creating a goal-scoring opportunity.
- Quick Throw: The player taking the throw-in may attempt to take the throw quickly, catching the opposing team off guard.
- Fake Throw: The player taking the throw-in may feign a throw-in to deceive the opposing team.
- Set Play: The throw-in may be used as part of a set play, such as a planned sequence of passes or a pre-planned movement of players.
Bottom Lines
Understanding the rules for soccer throw-in is crucial for any soccer player or fan. While the basic rules are relatively simple, there are a few advanced rules and strategies that players can use to their advantage. By knowing these rules and strategies, players can make the most of their throw-ins and increase their chances of scoring goals.
It is also important to note that referees will be watching for any violations of the soccer rules, so players must always be mindful of their technique and positioning during throw-ins. With this comprehensive guide to the rules for soccer throw-in, players and fans alike can gain a better understanding of this critical aspect of the game.
