Lesson 9: Football 4

• The Fourth Official position was officially introduced by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) in 1991
• Linesmen's Duties

  1. Their decisions signal that the ball is out of play

  2. Which side is entitled to a corner kick, goal kick, or throw in

  3. That a substitute is desired

  4. Assist the referee in controlling the game in accordance with the rules

  5. Assist in substitution procedures and ensure they are done in an orderly manner

  6. Ensure delays in the game are kept to a minimum, particularly concerning game equipment

  7. Ensure all player equipment comply with the rules of the game before they are brought into the playing field

  8. Be equipped with flags to point the direction of play
• Fourth Official's Duties

  1. Assist the referee in various tasks

  2. Can be called upon to replace another match official

  3. Assist in the referee's administrative duties

  4. Assist in substitution procedures and ensure they are done in an orderly manner

  5. Ensure delays in the game are kept to a minimum, particularly concerning game equipment

  6. Ensure all player equipment comply with the rules of the game before they are brought into the playing field

  7. Serve as the point of contact between match officials and stadium managers, security personnel, broadcast crew, and other non-participants

  8. Point out situations going in and out of the referee's sight, such as when the wrong player is cautioned or not sent off after a second caution

  9. Report any case of misconduct not in the view of the referee and other officials

  10. Submit to the referee's final decision
• Referee's Duties

  1. Gives warning to any player guilty of misconduct; suspends him or her if the player repeats the offense

  2. Allows no person other than the players and linesmen to enter the field of play unless he or she permits it

  3. Stops the game if, in his or her opinion, a player has been seriously injured

  4. Suspends any player from playing if, in his or her opinion, the player is guilty of violent conduct, serious foul play, or the use of foul or abusive language

  5. Signals for resumption of the game after stoppage

  6. Decides if the ball provided for a match meet with the requirements of the game