Where should I position myself during play and at restarts?
Rule- South Africa
- SAFA
- IFAB Laws of the Game
- Assistant referees
- Senior
- 2026/27
- Match officials
From the IFAB practical guidelines (2026/27):
General play: stay in line with the second-last defender, or with the ball if it is nearer the goal line than the second-last defender. Always face the field, even when running, and use side-steps for short distances. This gives the best line of vision for offside.
Restarts
| Situation | Position |
|---|---|
| Kick-off | In line with the second-last defender |
| Free kick | In line with the second-last defender, ready to move towards the corner flag if there is a direct shot |
| Corner kick | Behind the corner flag, in line with the goal line, without interfering with the kicker; check the ball is properly placed in the corner area |
| Goal kick | First check the ball is inside the goal area (if not, stay put, make eye contact and raise the flag); then move to the offside line |
| Goalkeeper releasing the ball | In line with the edge of the penalty area, to check the goalkeeper doesn't handle outside it; then move to the offside line |
Added 22 Oct 2026