development topics and refereeing issues are discussed in a relaxed manner.
for 2018-19. Our committee member and Level 3 Referee, Mark Ryder took to the floor with several
scenario-based questions with those present required to decide which would be the correct course of action
in accordance with the Laws of the Game in particular incident.
The second element of the evening featured a presentation from our Training Officer and Level 3 Referee, Carl
Rooney entitled ‘Offside- to be or not to be.’’ Carl began by providing a handout with guidance from the Laws of
the Game in relation to offside, allowing those present to refresh themselves with the specific terminology that is
used. He then informed us that he was to show us several clips and it would be are job to decide whether the
assistant referee should flag for offside…
In a piece of interactive innovation, Carl then got his own offside flags out and invited us up in groups of two to
make a decision in real-time as to whether we would signal for offside in that particular scenario if we were the
assistant referee in that situation. In each case some gentle interrogation ensued with those with the flags
required to justify their decision in that particular scenario before the incident was opened up to the floor for
discussion. Some key considerations in different clips included:
- Whether an offside offence had been committed or if the player was merely in an offside position.
- Whether the player interfered with play or an opponent.
- Whether a player has clearly attempted to play a ball which is close when this impacted on an opponent.
- The time-frame involved in between the player being an offside position and any subsequent challenge for the ball.
After discussion had concluded on each of the incidents, Carl then referred to the official guidance on each scenario, occasionally responded to by surprise and more debate, and then gave practical advice to members when judging similar situations in their own games.
Those present greatly enjoyed this lively and engaging start to the new season. Our Chairman, Steve Stewart commended Carl on the extent of preparation he had done for this session and his delivery of it, rightly pointing out how beneficial the session will be to colleagues when officiating in games throughout the new season.
The next ‘Social Evening’ takes place on Thursday 25th September 2018, including the L.A.M.O Annual General meeting.
Membership of the Liverpool Association of Match Officials are now being received for the 2018-19 season please see our ‘Membership’ page for full details.