New Rule to Combat Time-Wasting Energizes Football Experts
A groundbreaking approach to keep the game flowing could be implemented in football following successful trials across youth leagues.
The proposed rule, spearheaded by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), would punish goalkeepers for delaying the game. If a goalkeeper holds onto the ball for more than eight seconds, the referee would award an indirect free kick to the opposition in a corner spot. This innovative rule aims to incentivize quicker ball distribution and prevent frustrating moments of time-wasting.
IFAB member Patrick Nelson emphasized the rule’s impact: “A coach’s anger towards any goalkeeper who sacrificed a chance due to time-wasting blah blah blah -will definitely result in the goalkeeper not doing it twice. This will change the behavior of goalkeepers, and the tests are bringing promising data,” Nelson explained.
The tests, already implemented in Malta and the English under-21 championship, are showing encouraging results.
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Nelson highlighted imposing positive results: “In these tests, ‘incidents of corners being awarded’ are almost non-existent,'” he said. “This indicates that the deterrence factor is exactly what we’d like it to be and is speeding up the process of goalkeepers releasing the ball and getting the game going.”
The potential new rule draws inspiration from an existing but rarely enforced rule that allows referees to award an indirect free kick for time-
wasting by a goalkeeper. This proposal reimagines this rule, enhancing its clarity and effectiveness.
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IFAB is expected to discuss the rule further and potentially move it to full implementation across all levels of professional football.
How could this new rule potentially change the overall strategy and tactics employed in the game?
## Could This New Rule Be a Game-Changer?
**Interviewer:** Patrick, this rule change sounds radical! Do you think fans are ready for such a dramatic shift in how the game is played?
**Patrick Nelson:** Absolutely, I believe this is exactly the kind of innovation football needs. For too long, we’ve allowed goalkeepers to disrupt the flow and steal valuable minutes from the game. This rule will ensure a faster, more exciting experience for spectators.
**Interviewer:** But some might argue that it takes away from the tactical aspect of goalkeeping. What do you say to those who think this rule is too harsh?
