User:Grover cleveland/History of the laws of the game

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Public school games[edit]

Laws of football predating the FA[edit]

Dates: from Curry / Dunning: "Association Football: A Study in Figurational Sociology" p. 40:

  • Rugby School: 1845
  • Eton: 1847. Wall game (version < 1875)
  • Shrewsbury: 1855 (Oldham, A History of Shrewsbury School, 1952: 235) "The rules are noted as 1855 by Oldham but the original copy of the rules at the school says only that it it taken from the score book of Richard Saul Ferguson, who attended the school from 1853 to 1856".
    • [pieced together from Google Books]: [beginning of page] they do not show a great deal of change. The earliest dates from about 1855, and the principal points in which the code then differed from modern Association are these: 1. Each side could consist of twelve, or of an unspecified number. 2. A match was decided by the best out of three 'games' (i.e. goals). 3. A goal could be kicked at any height. 4. A player who caught the ball direct from a kick could take a 'hoist' (i.e. drop kick); otherwise the ball might not be handled. 5. No one might stand wilfully between the ball and his opponents' goal". The last provision about being offside (or 'in goal', as it was then called) made, of course, all ordinary forward passing impossible, and reduced the game to an entirely dribbling affair. the game was, as A. F. Chance wrote, 'admirably adapted for bringing out cleverness in this direction, and encouraging the most egregious selfishness', In the next three sets of rules [apparently after 1863, see Wikisource], the only changes that appear are the introduction (in one) of an unspecified time limit, instead of the match being concluded by one side scoring two goals, and the provision for a 'scrimmage', later called a 'squash,' when the ball went into touch. A squash is described in later rules as 'the forward players on either side forming into two lines at right angles to the boundary line,' the ball being ... there was a goalkeeper (in fact, sometimes there was more than one) although a goal could still be scored above the tape that then took the place of the crossbar. The time limit disappears again, and a match is now decided by the best of five goals. A squash is also provided for when, in Association, a corner would be given, and 'charging off the ball' -- that is to say, when no near the ball -- is specifically forbidden ... version from 1875
  • Uppingham: 1857 (Tozer, "Physical Education at Thring's Uppingham [?]" 1974: 57-8) (version version < 1875) (version from 1875 allows running with the ball).
  • Harrow: 1858 (Harrow School archives)
  • Westminster: 1860 (Dunning and Sheard, "Barbarians, Gentlemen and Players" 1979: 98, 2005: 85: "This date was given to us in 1961 by J. D. Carleton, then Head Master of Westminster.")
  • Charterhouse: 1862: (Dunning and Sheard 1979: 98, 2005: 85: "This date was given to us in 1961 by R. H. Crawford, then Master in charge of football at Charterhouse.")
  • Winchester: 1863 (Sabben-Clare "Winchester College", 1981: 108). Full version is available from version < 1871
  • Cheltenham < 1871 (v similar to rugby, with rouges).
  • Marlborough: < 1875 (v similar to rugby)


Year Rugby School Eton College (Field Game) Eton College (Wall Game) Surrey FC Shrewsbury School University of Cambridge Harrow School Sheffield FC Melbourne FC Westminster School Blackheath FC Charterhouse School Simplest Game (Thring)
1845 checkY


1846 checkY


1847 checkY checkY


1848 (checkY)


1849 checkY checkY


1850 checkY
1851
1852
1853
1854
1855 checkY


1856


1857 checkY checkY


1858 checkY checkY


1859 checkY[1] checkY checkY
1860 checkY checkY


1861


1862 checkY checkY checkY checkY checkY checkY checkY


1863 checkY checkY

Rugby (Tom Brown's School Days, written 1857; Hughes attended Rugby School from 1834 to 1842.)[edit]

  • And we all wear white trousers, to show ‘em we don’t care for hacks.
  • Brooke’s going to let me play in quarters. That’s more than he’ll do for any other lower-school boy, except James, and he’s fourteen.”
  • Why, you don’t know the rules; you’ll be a month learning them.
  • quite another thing from your private schoolgames
  • there’s been two collar-bones broken this half, and a dozenfellows lamed. And last year a fellow had his leg broken.
  • they came to a sort of gigantic gallows of tw o poles, eighteen feet high, fixed upright in the ground some fourteen feet apart, with a cross-bar running from one to the other at the height of t en feet or thereabouts.
  • the match is for the best of three goals; whichever side kicks two goals wins:
  • and it won’t do, you see, just to kick the ball through these posts--it must go over the cross-bar;
  • any height’ll do, so long as it’s between the posts.
  • You’ll have to stay in goal to touch the ball when it rolls behind the posts, because if the other side touch it they have a try at goal.
  • Then we fellows in quarters, we play just about in front of goal here, and have to turn the ball and kick it back before the big fellows on theother side can follow it up.
  • And in front of us all the big fellows play, an that’s where the scrummages are mostly.
  • the other set to work to explain the mysteries of “off your side,” “drop-kicks,” “punts,” “places,” and the other intricacies of the great science of football.
  • As soon as the ball gets past [the bounds], it’s in touch, and out of play. And then whoever first touches it has to knock it straight out amongst the players-up, who make two lines with a space between them, every fellow going on his own side. Ain’t there just fine scrummages then!
  • [t]he whole mass of boys moves up towards the two goals, dividing as they go into three bodies.
  • That little band on the left, consisting of from fifteen to twenty boys, Tom amongst them, who are making for the goal under the School-house wall, are the School-house boys who are not to play up, and have to stay in goal.
  • The great mass in the middle are the players-up, both sides mingled together; they are hanging their jackets (and all who mean real work), their hats, waistcoats, neck-handkerchiefs, and braces, on the railings round the small trees; and there they go by twos and threes up to their respective grounds.
  • fifty or sixty boys in white trousers, many of them quite small, are going to play that huge mass opposite
  • won the toss, with his lucky halfpenny, and got choice of goals and kick-off
  • The new ball you may see lie there quite by itself, in the middle, pointing towards the School or island goal; in another minute it will be well on its way there.
  • the sixth-form boy, who has the charge of goal, has spread his force (the goalkeepers) so as to occupy the whole space behind the goal-posts, at distances of about five yards apart.
  • A safe and well-kept goal is the foundation of all good play.
  • captain of quarters ... spreads his men (the light brigade) carefully over the ground, half-way between their own goal and the body of their own players-up (the heavy brigade).
  • The School side is not organized in the same way. The goal-keepers are all in lumps, anyhow and nohow; you can’t distinguish between the players-up and the boys in quarters, and there is divided leadership. But with such odds in strength and weight it must take more than that to hinder them from winning; and so their leaders seem to think, for they let the players-up manage themselves.
  • the School-house captain of quarters has caught it on the bound, dodges the foremost School boys, who are heading the rush, and sends it back with a good drop-kick well into the enemy’s country.
  • Old Brooke stands with the ball under his arm motioning the School back; he will not kick out till they are all in goal, behind the posts.
  • They are all edging forwards, inch by inch, to get nearer for the rush at Crab Jones, who stands there in front of old Brooke to catch the ball.
  • If they can reach and destroy him before he catches, the danger is over; and with one and the same rush they will carry it right away to the School-house goal.
  • Fond hope! it is kicked out and caught beautifully.
  • Crab strikes his heel into the ground, to mark the spot where the ballwas caught, beyond which the school line may not advance; but there they stand, five deep, ready to rush the moment the ball touches the ground.
  • Take plenty of room. Don’t give the rush a chance of reaching you. Place it true and steady. Trust Crab Jones.
  • He has made a small hole with his heel for the ball to lie on, by which he is resting on one knee, with his eye on old Brooke. “Now!” Crab places the ball at the word, old Brooke kicks, and it rises slowly and truly as the School rush forward.
  • A goal in the first hour--such a thing hasn’t been done in the School-house match these five years.
  • “Over!” is the cry. The two sides change goals,
  • away comes the ball, kicked high in the air, to give the School time to rush on and catch it as it falls.
  • break through and carry the ball back

Rugby school (1845)[edit]

Harvey 33

"These rules were basically the same as those produced in 1846, except that they were preceded by a set of disciplinary and organisational rules which provide"

https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Laws_of_Football_played_at_Rugby_School_(1845)

More about "praepostors", etc. https://archive.org/stream/extenttowhichnov00cart/extenttowhichnov00cart_djvu.txt

Rugby school (1846)[edit]

https://hdl.handle.net/2027/hvd.hwrbh9?urlappend=%3Bseq=42

Rugby school (1847)[edit]

For rugby and football in general see http://www.world-rugby-museum.com/pages/history/origin/origin.htm

Rugby School (1851)[edit]

Photos! https://www.flickr.com/photos/rugby_pioneers/26090048613/in/photostream/ Date of 1851 is latest possible: see https://www.antiquestradegazette.com/news/2016/unique-printing-of-early-rugby-rules-makes-13-000-at-cardiff-auction/ Better album: https://imgur.com/a/Xy7xIJD

Edinburgh Academy (1858)[edit]

Given in Roodt, "DNA of Rugby Football", but unsourced. 

 The following Rules are taken from the Book of Rules used at Rugby.

1. KICK OFF must be from MIDDLE and a place kick.

2. When the ball is touched down behind goal, if touched by the side behind whose goal it is they have a KICK OUT; but if by the opposite side, they may have a TRY AT GOAL.

3. KICK OUT must not be from more than 25 yards out of goal.

4. FAIR CATCH is a catch direct from the foot, or a knock on from the HAND of the opposite side only.

5. A CATCH from a throw on is not a fair catch.

6. CHARGING is fair, in case of a place kick, as soon as the ball has touched the ground; in case of a kick from a catch, as soon as the player offers to kick, but he may always draw back, unless he has actually touched the ball with his foot.

ETC

Rugby (as of 1859)[edit]

https://books.google.com/books?id=jqMuAQAAIAAJ&pg=PA90

https://hdl.handle.net/2027/umn.319510007320917?urlappend=%3Bseq=866 In work published 1864: https://hdl.handle.net/2027/hvd.rslyh8?urlappend=%3Bseq=114 (this seems to be the same as the 59 rules above)

Evidence this may actually date from 1859: "new edition" advertised: https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0001933/18590618/069/0006

Rugby (change made in 1860)[edit]

https://www.newspapers.com/image/390840981/?terms=%22laws%2Bof%2Bfootball%22

Rugby School (1862)[edit]

Allegedly 62 rules here: https://play.google.com/books/reader?id=y89dCgAAQBAJ&printsec=frontcover&pg=GBS.PT113 (includes intro + plan). Slight differences in rules from 59, such as 13 has extra material.

As of 1870: https://books.google.com/books?id=KkICAAAAQAAJ&pg=PA167 (this differs from the "62" version: e.g. posts are of indefinite height rather than eighteen feet).

Better source here: http://www.world-rugby-museum.com/pages/history/origin/origin.htm#1917-AAME

Contained entirely in pp. 96-101.

See User:Grover cleveland/History of the laws of the game/Rugby 1862

Eton field game (1847)[edit]

"Discovered by Graham Curry" (Harvey 24)

Should not have been a surprise, since 1847 is referred to already here: https://hdl.handle.net/2027/loc.ark:/13960/t6g16v411?urlappend=%3Bseq=24


Eton Field Game (1850)[edit]

Referred to in https://hdl.handle.net/2027/loc.ark:/13960/t6g16v411?urlappend=%3Bseq=24

No text

Eton Field Game (as of 1859)[edit]

https://books.google.com/books?id=jqMuAQAAIAAJ&pg=PA91

Must be 1857 revision.

Eton field game (1862)[edit]

https://hdl.handle.net/2027/loc.ark:/13960/t6g16v411?urlappend=%3Bseq=24

Slight differences from 1857 rules listed above.

Eton Field Game (as of 1868)[edit]

https://hdl.handle.net/2027/nyp.33433066624804?urlappend=%3Bseq=31

Upon first glance, seems identical to 1862.

Eton wall game (1849)[edit]

Harvey 25

Harrow-Eton rules (November 1862)[edit]

https://play.google.com/books/reader?id=y89dCgAAQBAJ&printsec=frontcover&output=reader&hl=en&pg=GBS.PT126.w.0.0.336

Cambridge rules (1848)[edit]

Harvey 41

No copy survives

Referred to in letter form H. C. Maldn, see Curry.

Cambridge University (1856)[edit]

https://hdl.handle.net/2027/mdp.39015065971502?urlappend=%3Bseq=648


Cambridge University (November 1863)[edit]

Harvey 42

Curry 47

https://specialcollections.blog.lib.cam.ac.uk/?p=5891

https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000355/18631121/077/0009 (Bell's Life in London)

Surrey FC (1849)[edit]

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Grover_cleveland/History_of_the_laws_of_the_game#Surrey_FC_Rules_.281849.29

"First printed rules produced by a team outside of the public schools". (Harvey 79)


Shrewsbury School (1855)[edit]

Harvey 36 No underlying source (!?!?!)

Systematic description of Shrewsbury Rules (December 1863)[edit]

https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0002070/18631205/030/0004

Harrow (1858)[edit]

In Curry p. 16

Sheffield FC (1858)[edit]

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Grover_cleveland/History_of_the_laws_of_the_game/Sheffield/1858

Sheffield FC (1862)[edit]

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Grover_cleveland/History_of_the_laws_of_the_game/Sheffield/1862


Westminster (1860)[edit]

Blackheath FC (1862)[edit]

https://archive.org/stream/bub_gb_y-VAAAAAIAAJ#page/n351/mode/2up


Charterhouse School (1862???)[edit]

Harvey p. 23. Maybe this: https://hdl.handle.net/2027/mdp.39015082130272?urlappend=%3Bseq=626 ??

Thring (1862)[edit]

Curry p. 70

Australian rules (1866)[edit]

https://www.newspapers.com/image/122275634/?terms=%22letting%2Bthe%2Bball%2Bfall%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bhands%22

Rugby Football Union first rules (1871)[edit]

  • NOTES:
    • Unlimited pick-up allowed (contrary to early Rugby School laws, which allowed catching the ball only directly or after one bounce).
    • Only goals count in scoring
    • After a touchdown, a try-at-goal may be made either by place-kick (like a conversion) or by punt-out (the weird procedure described in the early Rugby School laws).

Later RFU rules[edit]

McGill[edit]

https://hdl.handle.net/2027/njp.32101013392608?urlappend=%3Bseq=628 1874

Notes[edit]

NOTE: in 1859, laws of Eton, Harrow and Rugby began to be printed in Lilywhite's "Guide to Cricketers" (Harvey 49)

NOTE: In "The Field" 1861-12-14, the editor printed many football codes to compare them.

Comparison of different codes (1866)[edit]

https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/BL/0000098/18661114/003/0003?browse=true (Pall Mall Gazette)

Detailed discussion!! of laws (1930)[edit]

By Thomas F. Mulholland (1-8) and Patrick J. Douris (9-17)

https://hdl.handle.net/2027/mdp.39015005683662?urlappend=%3Bseq=112

Offside[edit]

A player is offside when a team-mate plays the ball, unless one of the following exceptions applies:

Year Player is level with or behind the ball In own half Three opponents between player and opponents' goal Three opponents between player and opponents' goal-line Two opponents between player and opponents' goal-line Two opponents not further away from goal-line Goal-kick Throw-in Corner-kick


1863 checkY checkY checkY * N/A


1866 checkY checkY checkY checkY * N/A


1872 checkY checkY checkY checkY * **


1873 checkY checkY checkY checkY * **
1874 checkY checkY checkY checkY *


1877 checkY checkY checkY checkY


1878 checkY checkY checkY


1883 checkY checkY checkY checkY


1907 checkY checkY checkY checkY checkY


1920 checkY checkY checkY checkY checkY checkY


1925 checkY checkY checkY checkY checkY checkY checkY


1990 checkY checkY checkY checkY checkY checkY checkY checkY 
* Throw-in was required to go perpendicular to the touch-line

** Coaner-kick had to be taken from the corner-flag itself

Restarts[edit]

May a goal be scored directly from:


Free kick awarded for


Year Kick-off Goal-kick Throw-in Corner-kick Fair catch /
touch down 		handball foul play other
offences 		Penalty kick
1863 checkY checkY ☒N checkY


1866 checkY checkY ☒N


1872 checkY checkY ☒N checkY ☒N


1874 checkY checkY ☒N checkY ☒N ☒N ☒N
1875 ☒N checkY ☒N ☒N ☒N ☒N ☒N


1890 ☒N ☒N ☒N ☒N ☒N ☒N ☒N


1891 ☒N ☒N ☒N ☒N ☒N ☒N ☒N checkY


1903 ☒N ☒N ☒N ☒N checkY checkY ☒N checkY
1924 ☒N ☒N ☒N checkY checkY checkY ☒N checkY
1997 checkY checkY ☒N checkY checkY checkY ☒N checkY

New table[edit]

Goal may be scored directly from

A goal may be scored directly from:
Year Handling Set-pieces
Kick-off Dropped
ball 		Free kick awarded for Penalty
kick 		Throw
in 		Goal
kick 		Corner
kick
Keeper
in own
penalty
area 		Not
intentional 		Intentional Fair
catch
or
touch
down 		More
serious
offences[2] 		Other
offences[3]
1863 — No No Yes — Yes — — — No Yes —
1866 —
1872 No Yes
1874 No
1875 No No
1882 Own
goal
only 		Own
goal
only 		Own
goal
only
1888 Yes
1890 No
1891 Yes
1896 Yes
(ball
must
go
forward)
1898 No
1902 Own
goal
only
1903 Yes
1924 Yes
1927 Attacking
goal
only
1962 Yes
1974 Yes
1997 Yes
(ball
must
go
forward) 		Attacking
goal
only 		Attacking
goal
only
2012 No
2016 Attacking
goal
only

Useful collection (1871)[edit]

https://archive.org/stream/bookofrulesofgam00alco

FA Rules[edit]

Motherlode of IFAB Archives[edit]

https://ssbra.org/ifab

Site with IFAB meetings[edit]

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1872-00/1886-87/IFAB1886.html

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1872-00/1887-88/IFAB1887.html

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1872-00/1888-89/IFAB1888.html

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1872-00/1889-90/IFAB1889.html

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1872-00/1890-91/IFAB1890.html

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1872-00/1891-92/IFAB1891.html

...

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1872-00/1898-99/IFAB1898.html (law 10: 3rd sentence omit "in the opinion of the referee")

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1872-00/1899-1900/IFAB1899.html (no changes)

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1900-39/1900-01/IFAB1900.html (no changes)

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1900-39/1901-02/IFAB1901.html (law 8 "in defence of his goal" omitted)

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1900-39/1902-03/IFAB1902.html (law 1 " Lines shall be marked 18 yards from each goal-post")

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1900-39/1903-04/IFAB1903.html (law 9: direct free kicks allowed)

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1900-39/1904-05/IFAB1904.html (law 9: "facing his own goal" omitted)

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1900-39/1905-06/IFAB1905.html (law 9: "Charging is permissible, but it must not be violent or dangerous")

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1900-39/1906-07/IFAB1906.html (no change)

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1900-39/1907-08/IFAB1907.html (law 6 player cannot be offside in own half)

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1900-39/1908-09/IFAB1908.html (Law 6 add note about halfway flags)

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1900-39/1909-10/IFAB1909.html (law 13 "the referee shall ~~have power to~~ allow for time wasted")

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1900-39/1910-11/IFAB1910.html (law 12 ends "or during the interval").

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1900-39/1911-12/IFAB1911.html (only change: LAW 1.—Foot-note (b) to read :—" Clubs may, during the season of 1911-12, mutually agree to use a ball other than one with an outer casing of leather, provided this Law is otherwise complied with. ")

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1900-39/1912-13/IFAB1912.html (Law 8: keeper may handle in penalty area, not own half)

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1900-39/1913-14/IFAB1913.html (Law 10 first sentence: free kick: opponenents must be 10 yards away not 6)

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/Seas1900-39/1914-15/IFAB1914.html (law 7 last sentence: Goal kick / corner: opponents must be 10 yards away (not 6))



Amusing anecdote: https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000327/19291127/037/0006

Early American?? football laws[edit]

Lists of complete laws[edit]

The maximum width of the goal posts and the maximum depth of the cross bar shall be 5 inches. "

  • Laws of 1895: 5: "

The player throwing the ball must stand on the touch line"


  • 1997 (simplified; requires checkout)
  • 1998 (direct link; no checkout)
  • 1998 (requires checkout)
  • 1999 (requires checkout)

http://xtrahistory.blogspot.com/2014/05/laws-of-game.html

Summaries of changes 2001-2005[edit]

2001[edit]

Summary of the 2001 Changes To the Laws of the Game

At the 115th annual meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB), held in Edinburgh, Scotland, a number of proposals for changes to the Laws of the Game were discussed. The changes approved by the Board, along with their reasons for the changes (published in FIFA Circular No. 750 dated 10 April 2001), are given below. New text is indicated with bold type. A few comments regarding the application of these changes in AYSO are shown. These amendments to the Laws become effective on 1 July 2001. The Board also issued several instructions and directives, which are effective immediately.

  • The first change is to the Notes on the Laws of the Game. These notes specify the only modifications to the Laws that are permitted.
  • Notes on the Laws of the Game: Subject to the agreement of the nationals associations concerned and provided the principles of these Laws are maintained, the Laws may be modified in their application for matches for players of under 16 years of age, for women footballers, for veteran footballers (over 35 years) and for players with disabilities. Reason: This change recognises the large number of players with disabilities who play football and permits appropriate modifications to the Laws to enable them to take part in officially organised competitions. AYSO Comment: A reminder of the permissible modifications: 1) size of the field of play, 2) size, weight and material of the ball, 3) width between the goalposts and height of the crossbar from the ground, 4) duration of the periods of play, and 5) substitutions.
  • The following change was made to Law 3: Law 3 – The Number of Players; Decision 2 The coach A team official may convey tactical instructions to the players during the match and he must return to his position immediately after giving these instructions doing so. He and the other All team officials must remain within the confines of the technical area, where such an area is provided, and they must behave in a responsible manner. Reason: The new text recognises that tactical instructions may be given by different team officials during the match provided the person returns to his or her position after giving these instructions and behaves in a responsible manner. The statement that the team official must return immediately to his or her position has been removed. AYSO Comment: AYSO’s ‘technical area’ consists of the coaches’ area, which extends ten yards on each side of the halfway line, the front and back edges, respectively, one and three yards from the touch line. Participation by coaches during AYSO games is limited to positive instruction and encouragement, and coaches must remain within the coaches’ area.
  • The following changes were made to Law 12: Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct; Indirect Free Kick Delete Bullet Point 5: • wastes time Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct; Decision 3 Delete the Final Paragraph: The goalkeeper is considered to be guilty of time-wasting if he holds the ball in his hands or arms for more than 5-6 seconds. Reason: Both texts are no longer necessary because of the alteration to Law 12 in 2000 which stated that a goalkeeper is permitted to control the ball with his hands or arms for up to six seconds.
  • Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct; Disciplinary Sanctions Only a player or substitute or substituted player may be shown the red or yellow card. Reason: This clarifies the use of the red and yellow cards. AYSO Comment: Reminder – Cards may be shown only during the match. Any misconduct occurring before the opening kick-off or after the game must be reported, and it is recommended that the referee also indicate whether it was a red card or yellow card offense.
  • Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct; Sending-Off Offences New Text (to be added after Sending-Off Offence No. 7): A player who has been sent off must leave the vicinity of the field of play and the technical area. Reason: This clarifies the situation for players who have been sent off. AYSO Comment: Although the Laws of the Game require a player who is sent off to leave the vicinity of the field of play and the technical area, the AYSO National Referee Program recommends that youth players who are sent off be allowed to remain on the sideline, under the control of their coach, unless when leaving, they are accompanied by a responsible adult.
  • Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct; Decision 1 Delete: A penalty kick is awarded if, while the ball is in play, the goalkeeper, inside his own penalty area, strikes or attempts to strike an opponent by throwing the ball at him. The decisions 2 through 6 became decisions 1 through 5 respectively. Reason: This confirms the sanction to be taken, as stated in the Questions and Answers Book on the Laws of the Game, when an object is thrown at an opponent from a distance. AYSO Comment: This is the new interpretation of where “an offence occurred” (as published in last year’s revised Q&A Book). Previously a foul was committed “where the guilty party started the action.” It is now “where the object struck or would have struck the opponent.” Sorry about that.
  • The “KICKS FROM THE PENALTY MARK” section (following Law 17) was given a new title, with new text (section) added as follows: PROCEDURES TO DETERMINE THE WINNER OF A MATCH The Golden Goal and taking kicks from the penalty mark are methods of determining the winning team where competition rules require there to be a winning team after a match has been drawn.
  • The Golden Goal Procedure · During the period of extra time played at the end of normal playing time, the team which scores the first goal is declared the winner. · If no goals are scored the match is decided by kicks from the penalty mark Kicks From the Penalty Mark Procedure (remaining text unchanged) Reason: To formally recognise the approval by the International F.A. Board of the Golden Goal as one of the possible procedures to determine the winner of a match.
  • The International Board also provided the following ‘Information, Instructions and Directives’ Holding and Pulling The International FA Board expressed its concern at the amount of holding and pulling which was prevalent in football today. It recognised that not every instance of holding and pulling of jerseys and shorts was unsporting behaviour, as is also the case with deliberate handball. It expressed regret, however, that referees were not applying the Laws fully in dealing with blatant cases of holding and pulling and issued the following Mandatory Instruction: Referees are instructed that, in the case of blatant holding and pulling, the offence must be sanctioned by a direct free kick, or a penalty kick if the offence is committed inside the penalty area, and the player must be cautioned for unsporting behaviour.
  • Treatment of Injured Players The Board considered the problems caused by injuries to players. It was of the opinion that referees should allow players to return to the field of play as soon as possible after they have recovered from injury. In this respect, and in the case of players returning from treatment for a bleeding injury, referees may be assisted by the fourth official, where one has been appointed to the match. The Board also expressed its concern at the loss of playing time caused by the assessment of injuries to players and their removal from the field of play. The safety of the players must always be the main priority, however referees are instructed to add the full amount of time lost for these and any other reasons at the end of each period of play. Experiments to the Laws of the Game – Two referees The Board, having monitored the experiment of using of two referees in a number of federations, decided to end the experiment. AYSO Comment: Not a surprise. Another reminder – The diagonal system of control is the approved method of control for all non small-sided AYSO matches.
  • Experiments to the Laws of the Game – 9.15 metre (10 yards) Advancement The Board received reports from the Football Association and from the Scottish Football Association about the experiment of advancing play by 9.15 metres towards the centre of the opposing goal where a player failed to respect the required distance, delayed the restart of play by carrying, throwing or kicking the ball away, showed dissent by word or action or indulged in any other form of unsporting behaviour. It agreed that the experiment should continue for another year with an amendment to the current experiment to cease the advancement of play at the penalty area line. Celebration of a Goal The Board recognised that the celebration of a goal was an important and emotional part of football and relaxed the earlier statement in FIFA Circular 579 of 23rd January 1996 that any player removing their jersey when celebrating a goal should be cautioned. Players will no longer be cautioned if they remove their shirt but they will be cautioned for unsporting behaviour if their celebrations are provocative and intended to incite or ridicule opponents or opposing spectators. Players guilty of excessive time-wasting while celebrating a goal will be cautioned, as has been the case so far. Players Wearing Spectacles Sympathy was expressed for players, especially young players, who need to wear spectacles. It was accepted that new technology had made sports spectacles much safer, both for the player himself and for other players. While the referee has the final decision on the safety of players’ equipment, the Board expects that they will take full account of modern technology and the improved safety features of spectacle design when making their decision. AYSO Comment: Players who require prescription glasses are to be allowed to wear them during a match. The AYSO NRP recommends, but does not require, that retaining straps be worn. Rubber bands may also be used for this purpose. Prescription goggles such as the type used by racquetball players are also permitted, subject to the approval of the referee prior to the start of the match. Spectacle guards made of plastic or other hard material are not permitted. Artificial Surfaces The Board was pleased to note the major developments taking place in artificial playing surfaces and the introduction of the FIFA Quality Concept for Artificial Turf. Advertising The Board noted with concern that its Decision taken on 4th March 1995 prohibiting advertising and club logos on goal nets and corner flags, was not being respected. Such advertising or publicity is not permitted in the Laws of the Game and FIFA was asked to take action against clubs which do not respect these instructions.

2002[edit]

Summary of the 2002 Changes To the Laws of the Game

At the 116th annual meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB), held in Zermatt, Switzerland, a number of proposals for changes to the Laws of the Game were discussed. The changes approved by the Board, and their reasons for some of the changes, are given below. New text is indicated with bold type.

A few comments regarding the application of these changes in AYSO are also shown, along with some background information.

In World Cup years the IFAB typically makes no significant changes to the Laws; this year was no exception. These amendments to the Laws become effective on 1 July 2002. The Board also issued additional ‘Information, Instructions and Directives’, which are effective immediately.

Changes to the Laws of the Game

  • The first change is the addition of a new 3-part decision to Law 4 regarding players’ uniform shirts:
  • Law 4 – The Players’ Equipment; Decision 1 • Advertising is permitted only on the players’ jerseys. It may not be worn on shorts, stockings or footwear. • Players must not reveal undershirts, which contain slogans or advertising. A player removing his jersey to reveal slogans or advertising will be sanctioned by the competition organiser. • Jerseys must have sleeves. AYSO Comment: 1) The prohibition of advertising does not apply to the normal logos and markings of uniform suppliers. 2) This decision is intended to prevent players from deliberately taking off their shirts to reveal messages on their undershirts of a political, religious, commercial or social nature. 3) The third part of this decision is intended to preclude the wearing of basketball style jerseys, as had been occurring with some national teams. No minimum sleeve length has been specified.
  • The following change was made to Law 5: Law 5 – The Referee; Powers and Duties • Stops the match if, in his opinion, a player is seriously injured and ensures that he is removed from the field of play. An injured player may only return to the field of play after the match has restarted. IFAB’s Reason: “This clarifies the procedure to be followed when a player returns to the field of play following injury.” AYSO Comment: An injured player must first receive permission from the referee before re-entering the field of play. If permission is given while the ball is in play, the injured player must re-enter from a touch line; when the ball is out of play the injured player may re-enter, after receiving the referee’s permission, from any of the boundary lines.
  • The following change was made to Law 12: Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct; Indirect Free Kicks • An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a goalkeeper, inside his own penalty area, commits any of the following four offences: IFAB’s Reason: “This is a minor alteration to the text to recognise that there are now four offences instead of five as before.” AYSO Comment: In 2000 the ‘six-second rule’ was introduced, replacing the old ‘four-step rule’. Last year the ‘wastes time’ offence was belatedly removed (resulting in four offences rather than five), as was the “more than 5-6 seconds” goalkeeper time wasting provision of Decision 3.
  • Information, Instructions and Directives “Simulation: There was unanimous support for a high profile publicity campaign to be organised by FIFA against players guilty of this offence. Referees are instructed to take strong action against simulation and players guilty of simulation must be cautioned for unsporting behaviour.” AYSO Comment: At the March 2002 Referees’ Seminar in Seoul, the World Cup referees and ARs were instructed to deal firmly with players seeking an unfair advantage by pretending to be fouled. The game officials were also told not to tolerate players demanding yellow or red cards for opponents. “Players Delaying the Restart of Play: Serious concern was expressed at the number of players who delay the restart of play. The Laws of the Game are very clear on this matter and the Board insists that referees must apply them.” “Temporary Expulsions: The Board strongly supports FIFA’s concern that some national associations continue to use temporary expulsions in lower leagues. The Board confirmed in the strongest terms that this procedure must cease immediately, otherwise disciplinary sanctions will be applied against the offending federation.” “Celebration of a Goal: The Board expressed its concern at the common practice of players removing their shirts while celebrating a goal to reveal slogans and advertising. It was agreed that when time wasting occurred referees would continue to take actions in accordance with the Laws of the Game. It was also agreed that when slogans and advertising were displayed on an undershirt, the matter could be dealt with by the disciplinary procedures of the competition.” AYSO Comment: In 2001 the IFAB relaxed their 1996 decision that a player must be cautioned for removing his or her jersey when celebrating a goal. The referee must report to the appropriate authority any display of slogans or advertising displayed on a player’s undershirt. Players are to be cautioned, however, for unsporting behaviour if their celebrations are provocative and intended to incite or ridicule opponents or opposing spectators. Players guilty of excessive time wasting while celebrating a goal must also be cautioned. “Artificial Surfaces: The Board endorsed its support at last year’s meeting for the FIFA Quality Concept for Artificial Surfaces.” “Additional Instructions to Referees, Assistant Referees and Fourth Officials: The Board approved that the ‘Additional Instructions for Referees, Assistant Referees and Fourth Officials’ would now be printed in the Laws of the Game book.” AYSO Comment: From 1994 through 1996 the Law Book contained a section titled “Additional Instructions Regarding the Laws of the Game”. These were absent in the 1997–1999 Law books. In 2000 a section titled “Additional Instructions for Referees, Assistant Referees and Fourth Officials” was added to FIFA’s “Questions and Answers to the Laws of the Game” book (available on FIFA’s web site); these additional instructions will now be included in the Law book

2003[edit]

Summary of the 2003 Changes To the Laws of the Game

At the 117th Annual General Meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB), held in Belfast, Northern Ireland, several proposals for changes to the Laws of the Game were discussed. The changes approved by the Board, and its reasons for the changes, are given below. New text is indicated with bold type.

The Board also issued additional instructions and directives, which are effective immediately. A few comments regarding the application of these changes in AYSO are also shown, along with some additional background information. These amendments to the Laws become effective on July 1, 2003. Changes to the Laws of the Game

  • Law 4 – The Players’ Equipment; Decision 1 At the 2002 meeting of the Board a new three-part decision was added to Law 4. At this year’s meeting the Board removed the requirement that read “Advertising is permitted only on the players’ jerseys. It may not be worn on shorts, stockings or footwear.” The revised decision now reads as follows: • Players must not reveal undershirts which contain slogans or advertising. A player removing his jersey to reveal slogans or advertising will be sanctioned by the competition organiser. • Jerseys must have sleeves. AYSO Comment: AYSO referees must not prohibit players from participating because they are wearing sleeveless jerseys. This is consistent with the instructions given last year, and with U.S. Soccer’s position as stated in its memo dated November 4, 2002, which is still in effect.
  • The Fourth Official The sentence shown in bold below was removed from the seventh bullet point and added to the first bullet point. • The fourth official may be appointed under the competition rules and officiates if any of the three match officials is unable to continue. He assists the referee at all times. The remainder of the seventh bullet remains unchanged, and reads: • He must indicate to the referee when the wrong player is cautioned because of mistaken identity or when a player is not sent off having been seen to be given a second caution or when violent conduct occurs out of the view of the referee and assistant referees. The referee, however, retains the authority to decide on all points connected with play. IFAB’s Reason: “By stating in bullet point 7 that ‘the fourth official assists the referee at all times,’ there is an inference that this could be in respect of matters of misconduct, the topic of the remainder of the paragraph. It is not expected or desired that the fourth official should be extending his role to include reporting cautionable offences and therefore for reasons of clarity and interpretation it is more appropriate to have the phrase in bullet point 1.
  • Kicks from the Penalty Mark The second bullet has been revised as follows: • The referee tosses a coin and the team whose captain wins the toss decides whether to take the first or the second kick. IFAB’s Reason: “To give the team which wins the toss a fair choice and not to insist that they take the first kick, which can be perceived as an advantage to the team which loses the toss.” AYSO Comment: Previously the winner of the coin toss was required to take the first kick.

Additional Instructions for Referees, Assistant Referees and Fourth Officials

From 1994 through 1996 the Law Book contained a section titled “Additional Instructions Regarding the Laws of the Game.” These were absent in the 1997–2001 Law books. However, in 2000 a section titled “Additional Instructions for Referees, Assistant Referees and Fourth Officials” was added to FIFA’s “Questions and Answers to the Laws of the Game” booklet. In 2002 these were relocated to the Law Book, following the Law 12 Illustrations. The Board has now added the following paragraph to these instructions: The Penalty Kick It is an infringement to enter the penalty area before the kick has been taken. The goalkeeper also infringes the Laws if he moves from his goal line before the ball has been kicked. Referees must ensure that when players infringe this Law appropriate action is taken. IFAB’s Reason: “Law 14 was amended in 1997, taking away the necessity for referees to caution when player(s) entered the penalty area prior to a penalty kick being taken. The amendment also allowed the goalkeeper to move along his goal line. Nowadays, infringements often occur at a penalty kick, yet the referee seldom takes action.” AYSO Comment: If the offenses have no impact on the play or the outcome of the kick, then the referee should consider them trifling and a word to the offenders is sufficient. In youth games it is recommended that the referee remind the goalkeeper to not move forward when the whistle blows, but to wait until the ball is kicked. Information, Instructions and Directives

  • Temporary Expulsions (“Cooling Off Periods”) “The Board re-affirmed the decision taken at its last meeting that the temporary expulsion of players is not permitted at any level of football.” AYSO Comment: A coach may call a player to the touch line to receive a few words of “positive instruction” concerning his or her behavior. A coach also has the option of telling a player to ask the referee’s permission to leave the field, getting the player under control, and then having the player request permission to reenter the game. No rule is permitted mandating that referees give a “cooling off period.”
  • Artificial Surfaces “The Board recognised the advances in artificial surface technology and the major benefits of using artificial surfaces in areas with climatic problems. It also recognised that artificial surfaces allowed multiple and extended use of facilities in urban environments. The Board mandated FIFA to create clear procedures for the use of artificial surfaces, to unify the quality system and apply it worldwide, taking into consideration the best resources and knowledge available.”

2004[edit]

Summary of the 2004 Changes To the Laws of the Game This year’s Annual General Meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB), its 118th, was part of a weekend of FIFA Centennial celebrations in London, paying tribute to the four British associations’ key contributions to the game of football. The revisions to the Laws that were approved are given below. A few comments regarding the application of these changes in AYSO are also shown. Changes go into effect 1 July 2004.

  • Law 1 – The Field of Play Field Surface—New section: Matches may be played on natural or artificial surfaces, according to the rules of the competition.
  • Law 1 – The Field of Play; New Decision 7 Where artificial surfaces are used in either competition matches between representative teams of associations affiliated to FIFA or international club competition matches, the surface must meet the requirements of the FIFA Quality Concept for Artificial Turf or the International Artificial Turf Standard, unless special dispensation is given by FIFA. IFAB’s Reason: “Advances in artificial surface technology have created high quality surfaces, which are fully acceptable at all levels of the game. This proposal recognises the surface of the field in the Laws of the Game for the first time and also the fact that artificial surfaces in identified levels of international competition must meet recognised FIFA standards.”
  • Law 1 – The Field of Play; New Decision 8 Where a technical area exists, it must meet the requirements approved by the International FA Board, which are contained in this publication. IFAB’s Reason: “This new International FA Board Decision gives formal recognition to the text on the technical area, which is published as an appendix to the Laws in the Laws of the Game booklet.” AYSO Comment: AYSO’s technical area is called the Coaches’ Area. It extends ten yards on each side of the halfway line, the front and back edges, respectively, one and three yards from the touch line. Participation by coaches during AYSO games is limited to positive instruction and encouragement. Coaches must remain within the coaches’ area.
  • Law 3 – The Number of Players Other Matches—This section has been replaced with the following: In other matches, up to six substitutes may be used. IFAB’s Reason: “The practice of making large numbers of substitutions in friendly matches devalues the game and creates a farcical situation. The number of substitutes used in friendly matches must be controlled.” AYSO Comment: This change does not impact AYSO; our substitution rules are given in the AYSO National Rules and Regulations.
  • Law 5 – The Referee; Revised Decision 2 The new text reads as follows: In tournaments or competitions where a fourth official is appointed, his role and duties must be in accordance with the guidelines approved by the International FA Board, which are contained in this publication. IFAB’s Reason: “This additional text using the phrase ‘which are contained in this publication’ is to provide consistent wording with other IFAB Decisions and to formally recognise the guidelines on the fourth official published in the Laws of the Game booklet.”
  • Law 7 – The Duration of the Match Extra Time—The text reading “Competition rules may provide for two further equal periods to be played. The conditions of Law 8 will apply.” is being deleted. It will now be included in “Procedures to determine the winner of a match” following Law 17 in the Law Book.
  • Law 10 – The Method of Scoring Competition Rules—This paragraph has been revised to read as follows: When competition rules require there to be a winning team after a match has been drawn, only the following procedures, which have been approved by the International FA Board, are permitted: • Away goals rule • Extra time • Kicks from the penalty mark
  • Law 10 – The Method of Scoring; New Decision 1 Only procedures to determine the winner of a match, which are approved by the International FA Board and contained in this publication, are permitted in competition rules. IFAB’s Reasons for both Law 10 changes: “These texts confirm the decision taken at the Annual Business Meeting of the IFAB in September 2003 that competition rules to determine the winner of a match may only include procedures that have been approved by the International FA Board.”
  • Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct; New Decision 6 The new decision reads as follows: A player who removes his jersey when celebrating a goal must be cautioned for unsporting behaviour. IFAB’s Reason: “The removal of the jersey after a goal has been scored is unnecessary and players must avoid such excessive displays of celebration.” AYSO Comment: We want to avoid unnecessarily cautioning players. Until this decision is widely understood, coaches should instruct their players to not remove their jerseys to celebrate the scoring of a goal. Referees, during equipment inspection, should also remind players.
  • Procedures to Determine the Winner of a Match The Golden Goal is no longer an approved method of breaking a tie. The paragraphs down to “Kicks from the Penalty Mark” have been replaced by the following: Away goals, extra time and taking kicks from the penalty mark are methods of determining the winning team where competition rules require there to be a winning team after a match has been drawn. Away Goals Competition rules may provide that where teams play each other home and away, if the scores are equal after the second match, any goals scored at the ground of the opposing team will count double. Extra Time Competition rules may provide for two further equal periods, not exceeding 15 minutes each, to be played. The conditions of Law 8 will apply. Kicks from the Penalty Mark Text unchanged IFAB’s Reason: “This text confirms the procedures proposed earlier.” Other Issues Discussed Radio Communication System It was recognised that this technology could make a positive contribution to match control but it was also recognised that such a system must only be used for communication between the match officials and must not be used for broadcasting purposes. Radio Communication between Players and Technical Staff The Board supported FIFA’s opposition to the use of radio communication between players and technical staff.
  • Law 4 – The Players’ Equipment The Board agreed that the use of a one-piece playing suit was contrary to the Laws of the Game

2005[edit]

Summary of the 2005 Changes To the Laws of the Game

This year’s Annual General Meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB), its 119th, was held February 26th in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales. Several significant changes were made this year, the two new Law 11 board decisions being the most controversial.

The annual amendments to the Laws of the Game and Decisions of the IFAB become mandatory each July First. A summary of this year’s changes follows.

  • Law 3 – The Number of Players; Substitution The IFAB has clarified substitution rules. This supercedes last year’s Law change, which read, “In other matches, up to six substitutes may be used.” The maximum number of substitutions now permitted is: FIFA, Confederation and National Association Matches: Three • Other National A Team Matches (‘Friendlys’): Six • Other Matches: Number set by the competition rules, or agreed to by the teams. In the latter case, if the teams before the match reach no agreement, or the referee is not informed, the maximum number is six.
  • Law 3 – The Number of Players; Infringements/Sanctions If a substitute enters the field without the referee’s permission play is stopped, the substitute is cautioned and required to leave the field of play. Play is restarted with an indirect free kick, rather than a dropped ball as previously required. The IFK is taken from the location of the ball when play was stopped (unless it was within the goal area).
  • Law 5 – The Referee; Decisions of the Referee The referee cannot change an incorrect decision once the game has been restarted or terminated.
  • Law 11 – Offside; New IFAB Decision 1 “In the definition of offside position, ‘nearer to his opponents' goal line’ means that any part of his head, body or feet is nearer to his opponents' goal line than both the ball and the second last opponent. The arms are not included in this definition.” Previously the USSF instruction was that the players’ torsos determined relative position.
  • Law 11 – Offside; New IFAB Decision 2 “The definitions of elements of involvement in active play are as follows: • “Interfering with play means playing or touching the ball passed or touched by a team-mate.” When the player who was in an offside position touches the ball, the assistant referee signals offside for interfering with play. The kick is taken from the player’s position when the ball was last played to him by one of his teammates (unless the player was within the goal area). • “Interfering with an opponent means preventing an opponent from playing or being able to play the ball by clearly obstructing the opponent's line of vision or movements or making a gesture or movement which, in the opinion of the referee, deceives or distracts an opponent.”

If a player in an offside position interferes with an opponent, the player does not need to touch the ball to be called offside. Example: A player, in an offside position, and the opposing goalkeeper are both moving toward the ball. Offside should be called because the player is interfering with an opponent. • “Gaining an advantage by being in that position means playing a ball that rebounds to him off a post or the crossbar having been in an offside position or playing a ball that rebounds to him off an opponent having been in an offside position.”

  • Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct; Disciplinary Sanctions “The referee has the authority to take disciplinary sanctions, as from the moment he enters the field of play until he leaves the field of play after the final whistle.” Previously the referee could only report misconduct that occurred before the kick-off or after the game, and could not show the red or yellow cards.
  • Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct; IFAB Decision 4 “A tackle, which endangers the safety of an opponent, must be sanctioned as serious foul play.” The words “from behind” have been deleted. The IFAB stated that any tackle (from behind, the side, or the front) “considered to be done with excessive force which injures or could have injured the opponent, must be sanctioned as serious foul play and therefore the offender must be sent off.”
  • Law 14 – The Penalty Kick; Infringements/Sanctions If the player taking the penalty kick infringes the Laws of the Game, or a teammate of the player taking the kick enters the penalty area or moves in front of or within 9.15m (10 yds) of the penalty mark: “If the ball does not enter the goal, the referee stops play and restarts the match with an indirect free kick to the defending team”. The change, in two Law 14 bullet points, is the awarding of an indirect free kick. Previously the two bullet points said, “the kick is not retaken.”
  • Law 15 – The Throw-In; Procedure The Law now states “All opponents must stand no less than 2 meters from the point at which the throw-in is taken.” Players who fail to respect this required distance are to be cautioned and shown the yellow card for unsporting behavior.

Laws currently lacking sources[edit]

Editions of "British Rural Sports"[edit]

Editions of Shearman, "Athletics and Football"[edit]

Illustrations[edit]

FA Rules of 1863[edit]

https://hdl.handle.net/2027/chi.15252850?urlappend=%3Bseq=331 

1. The maximum length of the ground shall be 200 yards; the
maximum breadth shall be 100 yards; the length and breadth shall
be marked off with flags; and the goals shall be defined by two
upright posts, eight yards apart, without any tape or bar across them.

2. The winner of the toss shall have the choice of goals. The
game shall be commenced by a place-kick from the centre of the
ground by the side losing the toss. The other side shall not approach
within ten yards of the ball until it is kicked off.

3. After a goal is won, the losing side shall kick off, and the goals
shall be changed.

4. A goal shall be won when the ball passes between the
goal-posts or over the space between the goal-posts (at whatever height),
not being thrown, knocked on, or carried.

5. When the ball is in touch, the first player who touches it shall
throw it from the point on the boundary line where it left the ground,
in a direction at right angles with the boundary line, and it shall not
be in play until it has touched the ground.

6. When a player has kicked the ball, any one of the same side
who is nearer to the opponents' goal line is out of play, and may not
touch the ball himself, nor in any way whatsoever prevent any other
player from doing so until the ball has been played; but no player is
out of play when the ball is kicked off from behind the goal line.

7. In case the ball goes behind the goal line, if a player on the
side to whom the goal belongs first touches the ball, one of his side
shall be entitled to a free kick from the goal line at the point opposite
the place where the ball shall be touched. If a player of the opposite
side first touches the ball, one of his side shall be entitled to a free
kick, at the goal only, from a point fifteen yards from the goal line,
opposite the place where the ball is touched; the opposing side shall
stand behind the goal line until he has had his kick.

8. If a player makes a fair catch, he shall be entitled to a free
kick, providing he claims it by making a mark with his heel at once;
and in order to take such kick he may go as far back as he pleases,
and no player on the opposite side shall advance beyond his mark
until he has kicked.

9. No player shall carry the ball.

10. Neither tripping nor hacking shall be allowed, and no player
shall use his hands to hold or push his adversary.

11. A player shall not throw the ball or pass it to another with his
hands.

12. No player shall take the ball from the ground with his hands,
under any pretence whatever, while it is in play.

13. No player shall be allowed to wear projecting nails, iron plates,
or gutta-percha, on the soles or heels of his boots.

Definitions of terms.

A place kick is a kick at the ball while it is on the ground, in any
position which the kicker may choose to place it.

A free kick is the privilege of kicking at the ball, without obstruction, in such a manner as the kicker may think fit.

A fair catch is when the ball is caught, after it has touched the
person of an adversary, or has been kicked or knocked on by an adversary, and before it has touched the ground or one of the side
catching it; but if the ball is kicked from behind the goal line, a fair
catch cannot be made.

Hacking — is kicking an adversary intentionally.

Tripping — is throwing an adversary by the use of the legs.

Knocking on — is when a player strikes or propels the ball with
his hands or arms.

Holding – includes the obstruction of a player by the hand or any
part of the arm below the elbow.

Touch — is that part of the field, on either side of the ground, which
is beyond the line of flags.

First game under new rules: http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000893/18640106/033/0004 Also: "Pocket Laws" published (same article).

Minute book facsimile here: http://www.nationalfootballmuseum.com/collections_detail/football-association-minute-book-1863

Annual meeting 1864-11-05[edit]

http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000893/18641105/029/0004

No changes to rules. "We hope that at the next annual meeting we shall have room for such suggestions" ...

Annual meeting 1866-02-22[edit]

Notice, with suggestions of change: http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000893/18660207/001/0001

Account of meeting: http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000355/18660224/076/0007

CHANGES (reconstructed -- not necessarily that absolute literal text):

1. The maximum length of the ground shall be 200 yards; the maximum breadth shall be 100 yards; the length and breadth shall be marked off with flags; and the goals shall be defined by two upright posts, eight yards apart, ~~without any tape or bar across them~~ with a tape across them, eight feet from the ground.

4. A goal shall be won when the ball passes between the goal-posts or over the space between the goal-posts ~~(at whatever height)~~ under the tape, not being thrown, knocked on, or carried.

5. When the ball is in touch, the first player who touches it shall throw it from the point on the boundary line where it left the ground, in a direction at right angles with the boundary line, and it shall not be in play until it has touched the ground, and the player throwing it in shall not play it until it has been played by another player.

6. When a player has kicked the ball, any one of the same side who is nearer to the opponents' goal line is out of play, and may not touch the ball himself, nor in any way whatsoever prevent any other player from doing so until the ball has been played, , unless there are at least three of his opponents between him and their own goal; but no player is out of play when the ball is kicked off from behind the goal line.


7. Replace entirely with In case the ball goes behind the goal-line, a player on the side to whom the goal belongs shall kick it off from the goal line, at the point opposite the place where it is touched by a player with any part of his body. But if a player of the opposite side first touches the ball, after it has gone behind the goal line of his adversary, one "touch down" shall be scored by his side, and in the event of no goals being got on either side, or an equal number of goals being got on either side, the side obtaining the greater number of "touches down" shall be the winner of the match.

8. (Fair catch) rule deleted.

The definition of "fair catch" was removed from the definitions.


Laws adopted on 1866-02-22 (reconstructed from description of meeting)[edit]

1. The maximum length of the ground shall be 200 yards; the
maximum breadth shall be 100 yards; the length and breadth shall
be marked off with flags; and the goals shall be defined by two
upright posts, eight yards apart, with a tape across them, eight feet 
from the ground.


2. The winner of the toss shall have the choice of goals. The
game shall be commenced by a place-kick from the centre of the
ground by the side losing the toss. The other side shall not approach
within ten yards of the ball until it is kicked off.

3. After a goal is won, the losing side shall kick off, and the goals
shall be changed.

4. A goal shall be won when the ball passes between the
goal-posts or over the space between the goal-posts under the tape,
not being thrown, knocked on, or carried.

5. When the ball is in touch, the first player who touches it shall
throw it from the point on the boundary line where it left the ground,
in a direction at right angles with the boundary line, and it shall not
be in play until it has touched the ground, and the player throwing it in shall not play it until 
it has been played by another player.

6. When a player has kicked the ball, any one of the same side
who is nearer to the opponents' goal line is out of play, and may not
touch the ball himself, nor in any way whatsoever prevent any other
player from doing so until the ball has been played, unless there are at least three of his opponents 
between him and their own goal; but no player is
out of play when the ball is kicked off from behind the goal line.

7. In case the ball goes behind the goal-line, a player on the side to whom the goal
belongs shall kick it off from the goal line, at the point opposite
the place where it is touched by a player with any part
of his body.  But if a player of the opposite side first touches the ball,
after it has gone behind the goal line of his adversary, one "touch
down" shall be scored by his side, and in the event of no goals being
got on either side, or an equal number of goals being got on either side, the side obtaining the greater number of "touches
down" shall be the winner of the match.

8. No player shall carry the ball.

9. Neither tripping nor hacking shall be allowed, and no player
shall use his hands to hold or push his adversary.

10. A player shall not throw the ball or pass it to another with his
hands.

11. No player shall take the ball from the ground with his hands,
under any pretence whatever, while it is in play.

12. No player shall be allowed to wear projecting nails, iron plates,
or gutta-percha, on the soles or heels of his boots.

Definitions of terms.

A place kick is a kick at the ball while it is on the ground, in any
position which the kicker may choose to place it.

A free kick is the privilege of kicking at the ball, without obstruction, in such a manner as the kicker may think fit.

A fair catch is when the ball is caught, after it has touched the
person of an adversary, or has been kicked or knocked on by an adversary, and before it has touched the ground or one of the side
catching it; but if the ball is kicked from behind the goal line, a fair
catch cannot be made.

Hacking — is kicking an adversary intentionally.

Tripping — is throwing an adversary by the use of the legs.

Knocking on — is when a player strikes or propels the ball with
his hands or arms.

Holding – includes the obstruction of a player by the hand or any
part of the arm below the elbow.

Touch — is that part of the field, on either side of the ground, which
is beyond the line of flags.


FA Rules as of 1867-01-23[edit]

http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000893/18670123/097/0004 


1. The maximum length of ground shall be 200 yards, the maximum breadth 
shall be 100 yards, the length and breadth shall be marked off with flags; and 
the goals shall be upright posts, eight yards apart, with a tape across them, eight feet 
from the ground.

2. The winners of the toss shall have the choice of goals. The game shall 
be commenced by a place-kick from the centre of the ground by the side losing 
the toss; the other side shall not approach within ten yards of the ball until it 
is kicked off. 

3. After a goal is won the losing side shall kick off, and goals shall be 
changed.

4. A goal shall be won when the ball passes between the goal posts under 
the tape, not being thrown, knocked on, or carried. 

5. When the ball is in touch, the first player who touches it shall throw it 
from the point on the boundary line where it left the ground, in a direction at 
right angles with the boundary line, and it shall not be in play until it shall 
have touched the ground, and the player throwing it in shall not play it until 
it has been played by another player. 

6. When a player has kicked the ball, any one of the same side who is 
nearer to the opponents' goal-line is out of play, and may not touch the ball 
himself, nor in any way whatever prevent any other player from doing so, until 
the ball has been played, unless there are at least three of his opponents 
between him and their own goal; but no player is out of play when the ball is 
kicked from behind the goal line. 

7. In case the ball goes behind the goal-line, a player on the side to whom the goal
belongs shall kick it off from the goal line, at the point opposite
the place where the ball is touched by a player with any part
of his body; but if a player of the opposite side first touches the ball,
after it has gone behind the goal line of his adversary, one "touch
down" shall be scored by his side, and in the event of no goals being
got on either side, the side obtaining the greater number of "touches
down" shall be the winner of the match.

8. No player shall carry the ball.

9. Neither tripping nor hacking shall be allowed, and no player shall use 
his hands to hold or push his adversary.

10. A player shall not throw the ball or pass it to another. 

11. No player shall take the ball from the ground with his hands while it is 
in play, under any pretence whatever. 

12. No player shall wear projecting nails, iron plates, or gutta percha on the 
soles or heels of his boots. 

DEFINITION OF TERMS. 

A "place-kick" is a kick at the ball while on the ground, in any position 
which the kicker may choose to place it.

A "free kick" is the privilege of kicking the ball without obstruction, in such
manner as the kicker may think fit.

"Hacking" is kicking an adversary intentionally. 

"Tripping" is throwing an adversary by the use of the legs. 

"Knocking on" is when a player strikes or propels the ball with his hands or arms. 

"Holding" includes the obstruction of a player by the hand or any part of 
the arm below the elbow. 

Touch is that part of the field, on either side of the ground, which is beyond 
the line of flags.


FA Rules adopted 1867-02-26[edit]

http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0001055/18670228/122/0004

CHANGES:

  • PROPOSED BY WANDERERS FC: Replace Rule 7 with "When the ball is kicked behind the goal-line, it must be kicked off by the

side behind whose goal it went, within six yards from the limit of their goal. The side who thus kick the ball are entitled to a fair kick off in whatever way they please without any obstruction, the opposite side not being able to approach within six yards of the ball." (note this gets rid of "touches down" as a tiebreaker)

  • PROPOSED BY BARNES FC: add "or knock on" to rule 8 (but not included in printed laws, perhaps by oversight)?
  • PROPOSED BY WANDERERS FC AND BARNES FC: remove definition of "free kick".
  • Proposal of Sheffield FC to change offside to require only one player, and of Barnes FC to abolish it altogether, was rejected
  • Proposal of Sheffield FC to introduce "rouges" was rejected

1. The maximum length of ground shall be 200 yards, the maximum breadth 
shall be 100 yards, the length and breadth shall be marked off with flags; and 
the goals shall be upright posts, eight yards apart, with a tape across them, eight feet 
from the ground.

2. The winners of the toss shall have the choice of goals. The game shall 
be commenced by a place-kick from the centre of the ground by the side losing 
the toss; the other side shall not approach within ten yards of the ball until it 
is kicked off. 

3. After a goal is won the losing side shall kick off, and goals shall be 
changed.

4. A goal shall be won when the ball passes between the goal posts under 
the tape, not being thrown, knocked on, or carried. 

5. When the ball is in touch, the first player who touches it shall throw it 
from the point on the boundary line where it left the ground, in a direction at 
right angles with the boundary line, and it shall not be in play until it shall 
have touched the ground, and the player throwing it in shall not play it until 
it has been played by another player. 

6. When a player has kicked the ball, any one of the same side who is 
nearer to the opponents' goal-line is out of play, and may not touch the ball 
himself nor in any way whatever prevent any other player from doing so until 
the ball has been played, unless there are at least three of his opponents 
between him and their own goal; but no player is out of play when the ball is 
kicked from behind the goal line.

7. When the ball is kicked behind the goal-line, it must be kicked off by the 
side behind whose goal it went, within six yards from the limit of their goal. 
The side who thus kick the ball are entitled to a fair kick off in whatever way 
they please without any obstruction, the opposite side not being able to approach 
within six yards of the ball.

8. No player shall carry [or knock on?] the ball.

9. Neither tripping nor hacking shall be allowed, and no player shall use 
his hands to hold or push his adversary.

10. A player shall not throw the ball or pass it to another. 

11. No player shall take the ball from the ground with his hands while it is 
in play, under any pretence whatever. 

12. No player shall wear projecting nails, iron plates, or gutta percha on the 
soles or heels of his boots. 

DEFINITION OF TERMS. 

A "place-kick" is a kick at the ball while on the ground, in any position 
which the kicker may choose to place it.

"Hacking" is kicking an adversary intentionally. 

"Tripping" is throwing an adversary by the use of the legs. 

"Knocking on" is when a player strikes or propels the ball with his hands or arms. 

"Holding" includes the obstruction of a player by the hand or any part of 
the arm below the elbow. 

"Touch" is that part of the field, on either side of the ground, which is beyond 
the line of flags.

Annual meeting of 1868[edit]

Proposed changes:http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0001055/18680201/054/0003 (one club wants to go back to the old offside rule).

Laws were left unchanged: http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000893/18680229/049/0004

Annual meeting of 1869 (1869-02-26)[edit]

Proposed changes: http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0001055/18690203/055/0003


Meeting: http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000893/18690227/045/0003

  • PROPOSED BY CRYSTAL PALACE FC: width of goal should be enlarged to 12 yards: "rejected by a large margin"
  • PROPOSED BY CRYSTAL PALACE FC: remove redundant definition of "free kick": Accepted
  • PROPOSED BY UPTON PARK FC: add to rule 9 "or charge him from behind": Accepted.

NOTE: definition of "free kick" had already been removed in 1867! Why was it removed twice? Note that Walsh, "British Rural Sports" and "Encyclopaedia of Rural Sports" includes this definition in what are otherwise the 1867 laws, so maybe some publications lacked this removal.

Laws of the Game (1869)[edit]

http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0001055/18700202/099/0003 


1. The maximum length of ground shall be 200 yards, the maximum breadth 
shall be 100 yards, the length and breadth shall be marked off with flags; and 
the goals shall be upright posts, eight yards apart, with a tape across them eight feet 
from the ground.

2. The winners of the toss shall have the choice of goals. The game shall 
be commenced by a place-kick from the centre of the ground by the side losing 
the toss; the other side shall not approach within ten yards of the ball until it 
is kicked off. 

3. After a goal is won the losing side shall kick off, and goals shall be 
changed.

4. A goal shall be won when the ball passes between the goal posts under 
the tape, not being thrown, knocked on, or carried. 

5. When the ball is in touch, the first player who touches it shall throw it 
from the point on the boundary line where it left the ground, in a direction at 
right angles with the boundary line, and it shall not be in play until it shall 
have touched the ground, and the player throwing it in shall not play it until 
it has been played by another player. 

6. When a player has kicked the ball, any one of the same side who is 
nearer to the opponents' goal-line is out of play, and may not touch the ball 
himself nor in any way whatever prevent any other player from doing so until 
the ball has been played, unless there are at least three of his opponents 
between him and their own goal; but no player is out of play when the ball is 
kicked from behind the goal line.

7. When the ball is kicked behind the goal-line, it must be kicked off by the 
side behind whose goal it went, within six yards from the limit of their goal. 
The side who thus kick the ball are entitled to a fair kick-off in whatever way 
they please without any obstruction, the opposite side not being able to approach 
within six yards of the ball.

8. No player shall carry or knock on the ball.

9. Neither tripping nor hacking shall be allowed, and no player shall use 
his hands to hold or push his adversary, nor charge him from behind.

10. A player shall not throw the ball or pass it to another. 

11. No player shall take the ball from the ground with his hands while it is 
in play, under any pretence whatever. 

12. No player shall wear projecting nails, iron plates, or gutta percha on the 
soles or heels of his boots. 

DEFINITION OF TERMS. 

A place-kick is a kick at the ball while on the ground, in any position 
which the kicker may choose to place it.

Hacking is kicking an adversary intentionally. 

Tripping is throwing an adversary by the use of the legs. 

Knocking on is when a player strikes or propels the ball with his hands or arms. 

Holding on includes the obstruction of a player by the hand or any part of 
the arm below the elbow. 

Touch is that part of the field, on either side of the ground, which is beyond 
the line of flags.

FA meeting of 1870-02-23[edit]

http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0001055/18700202/099/0003

  • PROPOSED BY WANDERERS FC: change ends at halftime if no goal has yet been scored. APPROVED.
  • PROPOSED BY WANDERERS FC: handling of the ball completely prohibited; punishable by a throw-in in the same manner as when the ball goes in touch
  • PROPOSED BY CIVIL SERVICE FC: handling of the ball completely prohibited, punished as above, except for the goal-keeper ("the player who, for the time being, occupies a position between the goal-posts for the defence of his goal".
  • PROPOSED BY UPTON PARK FC: handling completely prohibited. APPROVED


Brief but amusing account: http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000609/18700224/006/0001

Slightly more detailed account: http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0001578/18700305/082/0022

FA Rules (last five) as of 1870-11-12[edit]

http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000942/18701112/090/0004

(by Alcock) 



8. No player shall carry or knock on the ball; and handling the ball, under any
pretence whatever; shall be prohibited.

9. Neither tripping nor hacking shall be allowed, and no player shall use 
his hands to hold or push his adversary, nor charge him from behind.

10. A player shall not throw the ball or pass it to another. 

11. No player shall take the ball from the ground with his hands while it is 
in play under any pretence whatever. 

12. No player shall wear projecting nails, iron plates, or gutta percha on the 
soles or heels of his boots.

FA Meeting (1871-02-27)[edit]

Notice: http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0001055/18710225/160/0006


Meeting: http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0001055/18710301/054/0003


  • PROPOSED BY WANDERERS FC: throw in must travel at least six yards. ACCEPTED
  • PROPOSED BY UPTON PARK FC: Handling allowed by goalkeeper. ACCEPTED
  • PROPOSED BY OXFORD ASSOCIATION: go back to old offside rule. REJECTED
  • PROPOSED BY "CCC" AND BARNES FC: different proposals related to handling. REJECTED
  • PROPOSED BY CHESTERFIELD FC: "umpires". REJECTED
  • PROPOSED BY WANDERERS FC: "penalty for infringement of the rules". REJECTED

FA Meeting (1872-02-28)[edit]

Note: held at the Arundel hotel

http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0001055/18720302/137/0006

  • 3: After the half time ends shall not further be changed
  • 4: If the ball hits the goalpost or boundary post and rebounds into the field, it is considered in play
  • 7: Completely rewritten. For the first time, the team who kick the ball over the goal line matters. Both teams kick off from the corner. However, if the ball goes over the crosstape, the defending team still kicks off from within six yards of the goal as before
  • 8: Add free kick for violation of the handball rule.
  • 12: Definition of "projecting nails" changed.

Possibly these rules (source from 1874): https://books.google.com/books?id=jEACAAAAQAAJ&pg=PA96&lpg=PA96&dq=%22ends+shall+not+again+be+changed%22&source=bl&ots=zfdSnpfSkv&sig=73YY2mnKLp4FPmG66cjcLIlk_fM&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiYu7DKrszWAhWIh1QKHa-EBbcQ6AEIKDAA#v=snippet&q=%22shall%20not%20again%20be%20changed%22&f=false

FA Meeting (1873-02-XX)[edit]

Note: back at the Freemasons' Tavern

http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000893/18730301/076/0004


"Several alterations of a technical character were made in the rules".

FA Meeting (1875-02-24)[edit]

http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0001055/18750225/037/0004

FA Rules as of 1871 (ACTUALLY APPEAR TO BE THE 1870 RULES)[edit]

https://archive.org/details/bookofrulesofgam00alco?q=%22wear+projecting+nails%22 (1871) 

FA LAWS (ALCOCK 1871)

1. The maximum length of ground shall be 200 yards, the maximum breadth 
shall be 100 yards, the length and breadth shall be marked off with flags; and 
the goals shall be upright posts, 8 yards apart, with a tape across them, 8 feet 
from the ground.

2. The winners of the toss shall have the choice of goals. The game shall 
be commenced by a place-kick from the centre of the ground by the side losing 
the toss, the other side shall not approach within 10 yards of the ball until it 
is kicked off. 


3. After a goal is won the losing side shall kick off, and goals shall be 
changed. In the event, however, of no goal having fallen to either party at 
the lapse of half the allotted time, ends shall then be changed. 

4. A goal shall be won when the ball passes between the goal-posts under 
the tape, not being thrown, knocked on, or carried. 

5. When the ball is in touch, the first player who touches it shall throw it 
from the point on the boundary line where it left the ground, in a direction at 
right angles with the boundary line, and it shall not be in play until it shall 
have touched the ground, and the player throwing it in shall not play it until 
it has been played by another player. 

6. When a player has kicked the ball, any one of the same side who is 
nearer to the opponents' goal-line is out of play, and may not touch the ball 
himself nor in any way whatever prevent any other player from doing so until 
the ball has been played, unless there are at least three of his opponents 
between him and their own goal; but no player is out of play when the ball is 
kicked from behind the goal-line. 

7. When the ball is kicked behind the goal-line, it must be kicked off by the 
side behind whose goal it went within six yards from the limit of their goal. 
The side who thus kick the ball are entitled to a fair kick-off in whatever way 
they please without any obstruction, the opposite side not being able to approach 
within six yards of the ball. 

8. No player shall carry or knock on the ball; and handling the ball, under 
any pretence whatever, shall be prohibited.

9. Neither tripping nor hacking shall be allowed, and no player shall use 
his hands to hold or push his adversary, nor charge him from behind. 

10. A player shall not throw the ball nor pass it to another. 

11. No player shall take the ball from the ground with his hands while it is 
in play under any pretence whatever. 

12. No player shall wear projecting nails, iron plates, or gutta percha on the 
soles or heels of his boots. 

DEFINITION OF TERMS. 

A Place-Kick is a kick at the ball while on the ground, in any position in 
which the kicker may choose to place it. 

Hacking is kicking an adversary intentionally. 

Tripping is throwing an adversary by the use of the legs. 

Knocking on is when a player strikes or propels the ball with his hands or arms. 

Holding on includes the obstruction of a player by the hand or any part of 
the arm below the elbow. 

Touch is that part of the field, on either side of the ground, which is beyond 
the line of flags.

Eton Field Game (1815)[edit]

Can't find it

1847: https://hdl.handle.net/2027/loc.ark:/13960/t6g16v411?urlappend=%3Bseq=24

Rugby rules (1846)[edit]

Note: first Rugby rules were written in 1845 (Rowley 110)

https://hdl.handle.net/2027/hvd.hwrbh9?urlappend=%3Bseq=42 

APPENDIX A.
RULES OF 1846.
THE LAWS OF FOOTBALL AS PLAYED AT
RUGBY SCHOOL, sanctioned by a Levee of Bigside
on the 7TH of September, 1846. Rugby: Crossley and
Billington.
The following book of Rules is to be regarded rather as a
set of Decisions on certain disputed points in Football, than as
containing all the Laws of the Game, which are too well known
to render any explanation necessary to Rugbeians.
RULES.
i.
Kick off from Middle must be a place-kick.
11.
Kick Out must not be from more than 25 yards out of
goal, nor from more than 10 yards if a place-kick.
in.
Fair.Catch is a catch direct from the foot.
IV.
Charging is fair, in case of a place-kick, as soon as the
ball has left the ground; in case of a kick from a catch, as
soon as the player offers to kick, but he may always draw back,
unless he has actually touched the ball with his foot.
V.
Off-side.—A player is off his side, if the ball has touched
one of his own side behind him until the other party kick it.
VI.
A player being off his side is to consider himself as out of
the game, and is not to touch the ball in any case whatever
(either in or out of touch): or in any way to interrupt the
play, and is of course incapable of holding the ball.
VII.
Knocking on, as distinguished from throwing on, is alto-
gether disallowed under any circumstances whatsoever. In
case of this rule being broken, a catch from such a knock on
shall be equivalent to a fair catch.
VIII.
It is not lawful to take the ball off the ground, except in
touch, either for a kick or throw on.
IX.
First of his Side is the player nearest the ball on his side.
Running In is allowed to any player on his side, provided
he does not take the ball off the ground, or through touch.
XI.
If, in the case of a run in, the ball be held in a scrummage,
it shall not be lawful for the holder to transmit it to another of
his own side.
XII.
No player may be held, unless he is himself holding the ball.
XIII.
It is not fair to hack and hold at the same time
IV.
No hacking with the heel, or unless below the knee, is fair.
xv.
No one wearing projecting nails or iron plates on the soles
or heels of his shoes or boots shall be allowed to play.
XVI.
Try at Goal.—A ball touched between the goal posts
may be brought up to either of them but not between.
xvn.
The ball when punted must be within, and when caught
without the line of goal.
XVIII. The ball must be place-kicked and not dropped, and if it
touch two hands the try will be lost.
XIX.
It shall be a goal if the ball go over the bar (whether it
touch or no) without having touched the dress or person of any
player; but no player may stand on the goal bar to interrupt
it going over.
xx.
No goal may be kicked from touch.
XXI.
Touch.—A player may not in any case run with the ball
in touch.
XXII.
A player standing up to another may hold one arm only,
but may hack him or knock the ball out of his hand if he
attempts to kick it, or go beyond the line of touch.
XXIII.
No agreement between two players to send the ball straight
out shall be allowed.
XXIV.
A player having touched the ball straight for a tree and
touched the tree with it, may drop from either side if he can,
but one of the opposite party may oblige him to go to his own
side of the tree.
xxv.
In case of a player getting a fair catch immediately in front
of his own goal, he may not retire behind the line to kick it.
xxvi.
No player may take the ball out of the Close.
XXVII.
No player may stop the ball with anything but his own
person.
XXVIII.
If a player take a punt when he is not entitled to it, the
opposite side may take a punt or drop, without running, (after
touching the ball on the ground) if the ball has not touched
two hands, but such drop may not be a goal.
XXIX.
That part of the island which is in front of the line of goal
is in touch, that behind it in goal.
XXX.
The discretion of sending into goal rests with heads of
sides and houses, or their deputies." XXXI.
Heads of sides, or two deputies appointed by them, are the
sole arbiters of all disputes.
* The head of the School side in the Sixth match must always appoint at
least six deputies.
XXXII.
All matches are drawn after 5 days or after 3 days if no
goal has been kicked.
XXXIII.
Two Bigside balls must always be in the Close during a
match or Bigside.
xxxiv.
No football shall be played between the goals till the
Sixth match.
XXXV.
Three Praepostors constitute a Bigside.
XXXVI.
At a Bigside the two players highest in the School shall
toss up.
XXXVII.
Old Rugbeians shall be allowed to play at the matches of
football, not, however, without the consent of the two heads of
the sides; but no stranger may have a place-kick at goal.
[The copy of the Rules of 1846, from which the above are
taken, was kindly presented to the Committee by Mr. John
Masterman, O.R. It is undoubtedly very rare. The copy in
question belonged to his uncle, Mr. E. M. B. Storey-Maskelyne.
The following notes on the Levee, which sanctioned these
Rules have been furnished, through Mr. Masterman, by
another O.R.
1. I think that the ' Bigside Levee'of 1846 must have
been held between the Midsummer Holidays and the beginning
of the football season, perhaps in September, but I should not
like to say for certain when it was held.
2. A Committee must, I think, have been appointed to
make a first draft for submission to the Levee, but I forget
altogether (if I ever knew) how it was-appointed. The head
of the School, W. W. Shirley (Congreve's") presided at the
Levee, and suggested an alteration in the draft as to ' off-side,'
which was I think adopted.]

Surrey FC Rules (1849)[edit]

Harvey (78-79) 

1 The Club to consist only of such gentlemen as are members of the Surrey Cricket Club, Surrey Paragon Cricket Club, South LondonCricket Club and the Union Cricket Club.
2That subscriptions of 5 shillings to any of the above named gentlemen shall entitle him to all the privileges of Surrey Football Club.
That the money so subscribed shall be appropriated to the defrayal of the expenses of the club, namely, the cost of balls and ropes, and the payment of a person who shall keep them in proper condition.
3. The members shall dine together at the end of the season, and any surplus ins ubscriptions which may then be on hand, after the payment of expenses shall be applied to such dinner.
3 That the days for practice (weather permitting) shall be everyWednesday and Saturday in the afternoon, commencing on the firstweek of October and continuing until the last week of April in eachyear; the play to begin at 3 o’clock...
4 That the side shall consist of not more than 22 each, but if that number shall not be in attendance then of any smaller number to be arrangedby those present.
5 That wilful kicking shall not be allowed.
6 That the ball shall be tossed up in the centre of the ground, and the game determined in favour of that side which shall first kick the ball over the ‘goal ropes’ of their opponents. Should the ball be kicked over the fence on either side of the ground, then the ball, when regained, shall be tossed up in the centre of the ground, in line with the placewhere it went out’

FA Rules as of 1867-01-23[edit]

===FA Rules as of

Cambridge Rules (1857)[edit]

https://hdl.handle.net/2027/mdp.39015065971502?urlappend=%3Bseq=648 


1. This Club shall be called the " University Football Club."
2. At the commencement of the play the ball shall be kicked off from the
middle of the ground: after every goal there shall be a kick-off in the same
way.
3. After a goal the losing side shall kick off, the sides changing goals
unless a previous arrangement be made to the contrary.
4. The ball is out when it has passed the line of the flag posts on either
side of the ground, in which case it shall be thrown in straight.
5. The ball is behind when it has passed the goal on either side of it.
6. When the ball is behind it shall be brought forward at the place where
it left the ground, not more than ten paces, and kicked off.
7. Goal is when the ball is kicked through the flag posts and under the
string.
8. When a. player catches the ball directly from the foot he may kick it
as he can without running with it. In no other case may the ball be touched
with the hands, except to stop it.
9. If the ball has passed a player, and has come from the direction of his
own goal, he may not touch it till the other side have kicked it, unless there
are more than three of the other side before him. No player is allowed to
loiter between the ball and the adversaries' goal.
10. In no case is holding a player, pushing with hands, or tripping up
allowed. Any player may prevent another from getting to the ball by any
means consistent with the above rule.
11. Every match shall be decided by a majority of goals.

Cambridge Rules (October 1863)[edit]

Rowley p. 117 (https://play.google.com/books/reader?id=HmBoCgAAQBAJ&printsec=frontcover&pg=GBS.PA117)

J.C.Thring (1862)[edit]

http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000098/19051130/075/0010 

1. A goal is scored whenever the ball is forced through the goal and under the bar, except it be thrown by the hand.
2. Hands may be used only to stop a ball and place it on the ground before the feet.
3. Kicks must be aimed only at the ball.
4. A player may not kick the ball whilst in the air.
5. No tripping up or heel kicking allowed.
6. Whenever a ball is kicked beyond the side flags it must be returned by the player who kicked it from the spot it passed the flag-line in a straight line towards the middle of the ground.
7. When the ball is kicked beyond the goal-line it shall be kicked off from the line bv one of the side whose goal it is.
8. No player may stand within six paces of a kicker when he is kicking off.
9. A player is out of play immediately he in front of the ball, and must return behind the ball as soon as possible. If the ball is kicked bv his own side past player he mav not touch it or advance until one the other side has first kicked it, or one of his own side, having followed it up, has been able, when in front of him, to kick it.
10. No charging is allowed when a player out of play—i.e., immediately after the ball is behind him.

Blackheath Rules (1862)[edit]

https://archive.org/stream/bub_gb_y-VAAAAAIAAJ#page/n351/mode/2up 


Rules : 

1. That the ball be started from the centre of the ground bv a place- 
kick. 

2 . A fair catch is a catch direct from the foot, or a knock-on from 
the hand of one of the opposite side ; when the catcher may either run 
with the bull or make his mark by inserting his heel in the ground 
on the spot where he catches it ; in which case he is entitled to a free 
kick. 

3. It is not lawful to take the ball off the ground, except in touch, for 
any purpose whatever. 

4. A ball in touch is dead, and the first player who touches it down 
must kick it out straight from the place where it entered touch. 

5. A catch out of touch is not a fair catch ; but may be run off. 

(5. Running is allowed to any player on his side if the ball be caught 
or taken off the first bound. 

7. Any player holding the ball unless he has made his mark after a 
fair catch may be hacked ; and running is not allowed after the mark is 
made. 

8. No player may be hacked and held at the same time ; and hacking 
above or on the knee or from behind is unfair.

9. No player can be held or liacked unless he has the l>all in his 
hands. 

10. Though it is lawful to hold a player in a scrummage, this does 
not include attempts to throttle or strangle, which are totally opposed to 
the principles of the game. 

11. A player whilst running or being held may hand the ball to one 
of his own side, who may continue to run with it ; but after the ball is 
grounded it must be hacked through, not thrown or lifted. 

12. When a player running with the ball grounds it, it cannot be 
touched by anyone until he lifts his hand from it. 

13. If the ball goes behind the goal it must be kicked out by the 
party to whom the goal belongs from in a line with the goals; but a 
catch off a kick from behind goal is not a fair catch, but may be run 
off. 

14. No player is to got before the ball on the side furthest from 
his own goal : but if he does he must not touch the ball as it passes him 
until touched by one of the opposite side, he being off-side. 

15. A goal must be a kick through or over and between the poles, 
and if touched by the hands of one of the opposite side before or whilst 
going through is no goal. 

10. No one wearing projecting nails, iron plates, or gutta-perclia on 
the soles or heels of his boots be allowed to play.


Sheffield Rules (1867)[edit]

https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0001055/18670314/114/0004

Sheffield Rules (as of 1871)[edit]

https://archive.org/stream/bookofrulesofgam00alco#page/16/mode/2up 

1. The maximum length of ground shall be 200 yards, the maximum breadth 
100 yards. The length and breadth shall be marked off with flags, and the 
goals shall be upright posts, eight yards apart, with a bar across them nine 
feet from the ground. 

2. The winners of the toss shall have the choice of goals. The game shall 
be commenced by a place-kick from the centre of the ground, by the side losing 
the toss; the other side shall not approach within ten yards of the ball until it 
is kicked off. 

3. After a goal is won the losing side shall kick off and the goals shall be 
changed, but, if in playing a match, half the specified time expire without 
a goal being obtained, the side shall change goals, the kick-off being from the 
middle in the same direction as at the commencement of the game. 

4. A goal shall be won when the ball passes between the goal-posts under 
the tape, not being thrown, knocked on, or carried. 

5. When the ball is in touch, a player of the opposite side to that which 
kicked it out shall kick it in from where it went out; and no player be allowed 
within six yards of the ball until kicked. 

6. Any player between an opponent's goal and goal-keeper (unless he has 
followed the ball there) is off side and out of play. The goal-keeper is that 
player on the defending side who, for the time being, is nearest to his own 
goal.

7. When the ball is kicked over the bar of the goal, it must be kicked off by 
the side behind whose goal it went, within six yards from the limit of their 
goal. The side who thus kick the ball are entitled to a fair kick-off in what- 
ever way they please; the opposite side not being allowed to approach within 
six yards of the ball. When the ball is kicked behind the goal-line, a player 
of the opposite side to that which kicked it out shall kick it in from the nearest corner-flag:
no player to be allowed within six yards of the ball until 
kicked. 

8. No player shall stop the ball with his hand or arm, except in case of a 
fair catch, or attempted catch. The side breaking this rule forfeits a free kick 
to the opposite side, and the offending side shall not approach within six yards 
of the kicker; but nothing in this rule shall extend to drive them to stand 
behind their goal-line. The defending side shall be exempt from this rule, 
within three yards of the goal. 

9. No goal shall be obtained by a free kick. 

10. Neither tripping nor hacking shall be allowed, and no player shall use 
his hands to hold or push his adversary. Any player so offending shall forfeit 
a free kick to the opposite side. 

11. No player shall wear spikes, projecting nails, or iron plates, on the 
soles or heels of his boots. 

12. An umpire shall be appointed by each side, at the commencement of the 
game, to enforce the preceding rules, whose decision on all points during the 
game shall be final. And they shall be the sole judges of fair and unfair play, 
and have power to give a penalty for foul play of any kind. Each umpire to 
be referee in that half of the field nearest the goal defended by the party
nominating him.


DEFINITION OF TERMS. 

A Place-Kick is a kick at the ball while it is on the ground, in any position 
in which the kicker may choose to place it. 

A Free-Kick is the privilege of kicking at the ball without obstruction, in
such manner as the kicker may think fit.

Hacking is kicking an adversary intentionally. 

Tripping is throwing an adversary by the use of his legs. 

Knocking on is when a player strikes or propels the ball with his hand or 
arm. 

Holding includes the obstruction of a player by the hand, or any part of the 
arm below the elbow. 

Touch is that part of the field outside the line of flags. 

A Fair Catch is when the ball is caught before reaching the ground, after 
touching any portion of a player's person or clothing.

Summary of changes in the rules[edit]

https://books.google.com/books?id=FoxOAQAAMAAJ&pg=PA90&dq=%22wear+projecting+nails%22&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiiq7LChsHWAhWqi1QKHaVECekQ6AEIUTAH#v=onepage&q=%22wear%20projecting%20nails%22&f=false


  • "The earliest revision of the rules saw the abolition of the free kick"
  • "at first a player was allowed to stop the ball with his hands, this was soon afterward removed from the rules"
  • "An attempt by Sheffield to introduce rouges ... and [to introduce its offside rule which required only one opponent between player and goal] was equally unsuccessful"
  • 1866: off-side rule in use at Westminster and Charterhouse was adopted [ three opponents must be between player and goal]; this "removed the last bar to the adoption of a universal code by all players in the South". "From that time passing and dribbling became possible as a means to success".
  • 1866-7: first London v Sheffield matches
  • "even in 1868, [the FA's] sphere was somewhat limited; in fact on January 1 1868 only 28 clubs were affiliated"
  • 1870 "Sheffielders joined [the FA] with special freedom to play their own code, which they continued to do till 1877"
  • 1871 FA Cup founded. "Neither the Association nor the Rugby game secured a strong hold on the public until the establishment of Internation matches and Association cup-ties in 1871 [sic]".
  • 1872 First international (England v Scotland) (Queen's Park was at that time the only Scottish club with FA rules)
  • "From first to last the off-side rule has been a trouble"
  • 1879 Throw-in was altered to allow throw to be in any direction "to prevent scrummaging and charging".
  • "Up until [c. 1894] the goalkeeper was often bundled into the net even before he had touched the ball, but under the present rules the goalkeeper may not be touched until he is actually holding the ball".
  • The rules [as of 1899] say that the goalkeeper should 'only use his hands in defence of his own goal', meaning 'in his own half of the ground'.
  • The penalty kick has been introduced [as of 1899]

APPENDIX[edit]

Debate (Lincoln FC)[edit]

http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000355/18660303/058/0006


Dodgy rules of 1867[edit]

http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000893/18670123/097/0004


https://archive.org/details/manualofsporting00jame?q=%22wear+projecting+nails%22 (1873)

Rules printed at Harvey n172 (p269) But seem to be careless (e.g. "when ball is kicked")

Discussion at Harvey 160ff

Account of meeting at http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000355/18670302/097/0009


END 


"FA LAWS OF 1867" ACCORDING TO HARVEY (SEEM DODGY)
1  The maximum length of ground shall not exceed two hundred yards, and the maximum breadth shall be one hundred yards. Flags will mark out the length and width. The goals shall be upright posts, eight yards apart, with a tape across them eight feet high.

2  Teams will toss for choice of goals. The team which loses shall kick off. It will be a place kick from the centre, and until the ball is kicked the other side must not approach within ten yards.

3  Every time a goal is scored ends must be changed. The side losing the goal shall kick off.

4  A goal shall be won when the ball passes between the goal posts and under the tape, not being thrown, knocked on or carried.

5  When the ball is in touch, the first side to touch it shall throw it from the boundary line at the pace where it went off. It must be thrown straight, at right angles, and the man throwing it cannot touch it twice.

6  When a player has kicked the ball anyone of the same side who is nearer the opponents goal line is out of play and may not touch the ball himself nor in any way whatsoever prevent any other player from doing so until the ball has been played unless there are at least three of his opponents between him and their
own goal; but no player to be out of play when the ball is kicked.

7  When the ball is kicked behind the goal line the defenders must kick it out from the limit of their goal (within six yards of). It must be kicked off by the side behind whose goal it went within six yards of the limit of their goal. The side who thus kick the ball are entitled to a fair kick off in whatever way they please with- out any obstruction, the opposite side not being able to approach within six yards

of the ball.

8  No player shall carry or knock the ball on.

9  No tripping or hacking, no holding or pushing with hands.

10  Players shall not throw the ball, nor pass it to one another.

11  Whilst the ball is in play, players cannot pick the ball up.

12  No projecting nails, or gutta percha plates, on soles or heels of boots.

Definition of terms:

A place kick is when ball is on the ground in any position where the player may chooses to place it.

Hacking is tripping adversary intentionally.
Tripping is throwing adversary by the use of the legs.
Knocking on is when a player strikes or propels the ball with the hands or arms. Holding is obstructing with the hand any part of your opponent’s below the elbow. Touch is the dead ball area.

Example of "touches down" deciding a match[edit]

  • Barnes v. Civil Service (1866-12-07):
    • "A match was played at Barnes between these two clubs on Sunday last, and although the C. S. [Civil Service] were quite unaccustomed to Association Rules [omit: and had not latterly been much practised in "Fives", a knowledge of which game would seem to be useful in playing these regulations], victory declared itself unequivocally for them, as they won by three touches down to none, all got through the skill of their captain, Mr. Haudby" [4] http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0001055/18661213/106/0004 adds that "no goal was obtained by either side".

Illustrations of "The Rugby Ball" and "The Association Ball"[edit]

https://books.google.com/books?id=jEACAAAAQAAJ&lpg=PA96&ots=zfdSnpfSkv&dq=%22ends%20shall%20not%20again%20be%20changed%22&pg=PA142#v=onepage&q=%22ends%20shall%20not%20again%20be%20changed%22&f=false

Sheffield FC agm 1861[edit]

https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000181/18610202/021/0008

No mention of rules of the game, or indeed football at all.

Sheffield Football Association rules of 1867[edit]

Adopted at their inaugural meeting 1867-03-07 "

https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000893/18670313/050/0004

Notable differences from FA rules of 1867:

  • Goalposts are 4 yards not 8 yards apart
  • Crossbar not tape
  • Crossbar is 9 feet high not 8
  • "Rouge flags" on goal line, each 4 yards outside goal, with a crossbar 9 feet high
  • Throw in taken by team not kicking it out (not first player to retrieve ball)
  • Offside only if closer than ALL opponent's players (including goalkeeper)
  • Rouges are used as tiebreaker
  • "Holding" ball banned. Free kick for infringement.



che

First IFAB meeting: 1887-06-01[edit]

https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0001738/18870604/070/0007


Most significant change: goalkeeper can handle only in own half.

Commercialism will ruin sport![edit]

https://imgur.com/a/7z7L0

BETTER (full article) https://imgur.com/a/gRw6i

BETTER STILL https://imgur.com/a/b9dm6

Cautioned for[edit]

  • 1889 Ungentlemanly behaviour
  • 1907: DOIB: Persistent infringement of the laws is ungentlemanly behaviour
  • 1912 < x <= 1914: Instruction to Referees: must caution when play is "dangerous, or likely to cause injury".
  • 1934 < x <= 1942:
    • enters the field without permission
    • persistently infringes any of the laws of the game
    • shows, by word of action, dissent from any of the decisions of the referee
    • commits ungentlemanly conduct
  • 1922 < x <= 1976:
    • leaning on the shoulders of a temmate in order to head the ball
    • intentionally stretching out arms to obstruct and opponent and stepping from side to side
    • goalkeeper intentionally lies on the ball longer than is necessary
    • when an opponent takes a free kick "dance about or gesticulate in a manner calculated to distract their opponents"
    • when an opponent takes a throw in, "dance about or gesticulate in a manner calculated to distract or impede the thrower"
    • encroaches on a penalty taken by a teammate
    • goalkeeper moves from his position during a penalty
  • 1968 < x <= 1975: also cautioned for leaving the field of play without permission, "except through accident"
  • 1976 < x <= 1989: Failing to retire the proper distance when a free kick is taken.
  • 1990 < x <= 1993: rules explicitly refer to yellow card in addition to caution.
  • 1990 < x <= 1993: uses "deliberate trick" to circumvent backpass rule.
  • 1998 < x <= 2003: "unsporting behaviour" instead of "ungentlemanly behaviour". Delays the restart. Fails to respect distance at corner or free kick.
  • 2004 removing shirt

Sent off for[edit]

  • 1883 Wearing clothing or boots that infringes the rules
  • 1889 Violent conduct. Repeated cautionable behaviour
  • 1903 ("Council"): "bad or violent language to a Referee" counts as violent conduct (don't see this in the laws until 1920-21 though)
  • 1907 If cautioned and "any further offence is committed"
  • 1934 < x <= 1938 (probably 1938):
    • Persists in misconduct after having received a caution
    • foul or abusive language
    • Violent conduct
    • Serious foul play
  • 1922 < x <= 1976:
    • Spitting "or similar unseemly behaviour" is considered violent conduct
  • 1990 < x <= 1993: "Is guilty of a second cautionable offence" rather than "persists in misconduct". Rules explicitly refer to red card in addition to sent off.
  • 1990 < x <= 1993: DOGSO (originally classed as "serious foul play").
  • 1998 < x <= 2000: Spitting. "denies an obvious goalscoring opportunity" (DOGSO) by handball. DOGSO by free kick of penalty kick (if moving towards goal). "Offensive or insulting or abusive language and/or gestures" instead of "foul or abusive language". "Receives a second caution in the same match". (see https://www.sfsfl.com/Uploads/RefereeDocs/HowToWriteMisconductReportByDanAndersonUSSFGrade6[1].pdf)

Free kick / goal kick must leave penalty area?[edit]

  • 1905 NO NO
  • 1922 NO NO
  • 1934??? NO NO
  • 1938: goal kick "shall be kicked into play beyond the penalty area". "In case of a free-kick being awarded to the defending side in the penalty area the goalkeeper shall not receive the ball into his hands in order that he may thereafter kick it into play; the ball must be kicked direct into play beyond the penalty area, and if this part of the law is not complied with the kick shall be retaken"

Own goal scored from direct free kick / corner / throw-in counts as corner[edit]

  • 1905 NO
  • 1922 NO
  • 1938 NO in text of laws (but maybe DOIB)
  • 1946 YES (presumably DOIB) source: "A player has been known to kick the ball directly into his own goal from a direct or indirect free-kick, in which case the Referee should award a corner-kick"

Throw-in/kick-in[edit]

  • The Foot-Ball Club (1833): "A FREE KICK if ball out of bounds"
  • Tom Brown's School-Days (1830s, pub 1858): "You see this gravel walk running down all along this side of the playing-ground, and the line of elms opposite on the other? Well, they're the bounds. As soon as the ball gets past them, it's in touch, and out of play. And then whoever first touches it has to KNOCK IT STRAIGHT OUT among the players-up, who make two lines with a space between them, every fellow going on his own side. Ain't there just fine scrummages then! And the three trees you see there which come out into the play, that's a tremendous place when the ball hangs there, for you get thrown against the trees, and that's worse than any hack."
  • TBSD (1858): "We get a minute's breathing time before old Brooke kicks out, and he gives the word to play strongly for touch, by the three trees. Away goes the ball, and the bull-dogs after it, and in another minute there is a shout of " In touch," "Our ball." Now's your time, old Brooke, while your men are still fresh. He stands with the ball in his hand, while the two sides form in deep lines opposite one another; he must strike it straight out between them. The lines are thickest close to him, but young Brooke and two or three of his men are shifting up further, where the opposite line is weak. Old Brooke strikes it out straight and strong, and it falls opposite his brother. Hurra!"
  • Rugby School (1845): "A player touching the ball off his side must THROW it straight out????" [note: removed from 1846/7 rules]
  • Eton Field Game (1847): "When the Ball is dead, it must be THROWN in, or a BULLY formed parallel to the place where it stopped: these are to take place alternately"
  • Surrey FC (1849): "Should the ball be kicked over the fence on either side of the ground, then the ball, when regained, shall be TOSSED UP the centre of the ground in a line with the place where it went over."
  • Cambridge Rules (1857): "The ball is out when it has passed the line of the flag posts on either side of the ground, in which case it shall be THROWN in straight. "
  • Eton Field Game (1857): "When the ball is dead, a BULLY must be formed opposite to the spot where it stopped" [also 1862]
  • Harrow (1858): "If the Ball is kicked beyond the prescribed limits of the Ground, it must be KICKED straight in again; and then must not be touched by the Hands, or Arms below the Elbow."
  • Sheffield (1858): "A Ball in touch is dead, consequently the side that touches it down must bring it to the edge of the touch, and THROW it straight out at least six yards from touch"
  • Melbourne (1859): "When a Ball goes out of bounds (the same being indicated by a row of posts) it shall be brought back to the point where it crossed the boundary-line, and THROWN in at right angles with that line" [1860 same]
  • Rugby School (1859): "Touch.— A ball in touch is dead; consequently the first player on his side must in any case touch it down, bring it to the edge of touch, and THROW it straight out, but may take it himself if he can" [also 1862]
  • Barnes (1862): "If the ball is kicked out of the ground (to be fixed before commencing the game) it is dead, and the first player who can pick it up shall bring it to the point where it left the ground, and be entitled to KICK it as he thinks fit"
  • Blackheath (1862): " A ball in touch is dead, and the first player who touches it down must KICK it out straight from the place where it entered touch. "
  • Sheffield (1862): "When the ball is in touch, the side that first touches it must bring it to the edge of the touch at the place where it went in, and THROW it straight out at least six yards, and it must touch the ground before it reaches any player."
  • Simplest Game (1862): "Whenever a ball is kicked beyond the side flags, it must be RETURNED [kicked?] by the player who kicked it, from the spot it passed the flag line in a straight line towards the middle of the ground"
  • Cambridge Rules (1863): "When the ball goes out of the ground by crossing the side lines, it is out of play, and shall be KICKED straight into the ground again from the point where it is first stopped."

Illegal goal results in goal-kick / corner[edit]

  • Seems to originate as a DOIB (as late as 1976). First evidenced in 1946. Originally only expicitly applied to indirect free-kick or own-goal from direct free-kick -- presumaly applied to goal-kick, kick-off etc. by implication).

Foul play[edit]

Date Trip Push opponent Hold opponent Strike Kick / hack Jump at / leap upon Charge from behind Charge (dangerous / violent) Charge keeper Dangerous play / likely to cause injury Player sent off (if not covered under any other heading) Player cautioned for ungentlemanly behaviour (if not covered under any other heading)
1863 Forbidden Forbidden Forbidden Permitted Forbidden Permitted Permitted Permitted Permitted Permitted Permitted Permitted
1869 Forbidden
1874


Indirect free-kick Indirect free-kick Indirect free-kick Indirect free-kick Indirect free-kick
1878


Indirect free-kick (Unless facing own goal)
1880


Indirect free-kick
1883 Indirect free-kick (Unless facing own goal and wilfully impeding opponent)
1891 Indirect free-kick / Penalty kick [5] Indirect free-kick / Penalty kick [6]
1892 Indirect free-kick (Unless playing the ball or obstructing an opponent)
1893 Indirect free-kick / Penalty kick [7] Indirect free-kick
1897 Indirect free-kick / Penalty kick [8]
1901 Indirect free-kick / Penalty kick [9] Indirect free-kick (Unless playing the ball or obstructing an opponent or keeper is outside 6 yards radius)
1902 Indirect free-kick / Penalty kick Indirect free-kick / Penalty kick Indirect free-kick / Penalty kick Indirect free-kick / Penalty kick Indirect free-kick / Penalty kick (unless facing own goal and intentionally impeding an opponent) Indirect free-kick (unless holding the ball or obstructing an opponent or outside the goal area)
1903 Direct free-kick / Penalty kick (if intentional) Direct free-kick / Penalty kick (if intentional) Direct free-kick / Penalty kick (if intentional) Direct free-kick / Penalty kick (if intentional) Direct free-kick / Penalty kick Direct free-kick / Penalty kick (unless facing own goal and intentionally impeding an opponent)
1904 Direct free-kick / Penalty kick (unless intentionally impeding an opponent)
1905 Direct free-kick / Penalty kick
1907 Indirect free-kick
1914 Direct free-kick / Penalty kick (if intentional)
1934 Indirect free-kick

Restrictions on goalkeeper handling[edit]

Date Purpose Duration Location Manner of handling Match context
1871 For the protection of his goal None None None None
1873 None May not carry the ball
1874 In defence of his goal
1875 Only knocking on or throwing
1883 May not take more than two steps while holding the ball
1887 Must be in own half
1897 May not take more than two steps while holding the ball or bouncing it on the hand
1898 None
1901 None
1912 Must be in own penalty area
1931 May not take more than four steps while holding the ball or bouncing it on the hand
1936 May not receive ball into hands from a goalkick by another player in order that he may thereafter kick it into play
1937 May not receive ball into hands from a goalkick by another player or a free-kick taken by the defending side within the penalty area in order that he may thereafter kick it into play
1938 May not take more than four steps while holding the ball without bouncing it on the ground

Other special rules for the goalkeeper[edit]

  • 1891: Goal-keeper only player allowed to face a penalty
  • 1892: "The goal-keeper shall not be charged except he be in the act of playing the ball, or is obstructing an opponent. "
  • 1896: "The goalkeeper shall not be charged except he be in the act of playing the ball, or is obstructing an opponent. (Note:— In the act of playing the ball means actual contact with the ball.) "
  • 1897: "The goal-keeper shall not be charged except when he is holding the ball or obstructing an opponent."
  • 1901: "The goal-keeper shall not be charged except when he is holding the ball or obstructing an opponent, or when he has passed outside the 6 yards semi-circles. "
  • 1902: "The goal-keeper shall not be charged, except when he is holding the ball, or obstructing an opponent, or when he has passed outside the goal area."
  • 1938: "A player shall be penalised if he intentionally:— ... Charges a goalkeeper, except when he is holding the ball or wilfully obstructing an opponent, or when he has passed outside the goal area. "

Free kick notes[edit]

  • 1936: players may be less than 10 yards away only if between the posts and on goal line
  • 1937: free kick witin goal area must leave goal area.

Indirect free-kicks (from 1938 laws)[edit]

  • Offside
  • Playing ball twice from kick-off, free-kick, penalty-kick, throw-in, goal-kick (presumably ??), corner-kick
  • Player taking a penalty-kick doesn't kick the ball forward
  • Player taking a corner-kick removes the corner-flag
  • Player defending a corner-kick approaches within 10 yards (??)
  • Goalkeeper carries the ball
  • Charging the goalkeeper
  • Dangerous play
  • Caution for persistent infringement or dissent
  • Sending-off (violent conduct / serious foul play) if no other offence

Hilariously inaccurate account from 1867[edit]

https://archive.org/details/ouryoungfolksser3112trow/page/238

Publication of rules[edit]

  • 1845 Rugby School (subsequently 1846, 1847, c. 1851, c. 1859, 1862, etc.)
  • 1847 Eton Field Game (subsequently 1857)
  • 1849 Surrey FC (not detailed)
  • 1858 Harrow School
  • 1858 Trinity College, Hartford, CT (not detailed)
  • 1859 Sheffield FC (formulated 1858) (subsequently 1862)
  • 1862 Simplest Game
  • 1863 Descriptions of the laws of many public school games published in "The Field".
  • 1863 Cambridge Rules (Nov)
  • 1863 FA Rules (Dec)

Penalty rule weirdness[edit]

https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000986/18910921/003/0001

Ref (incorrectly) awarded a penalty when keeper kicked an opponent.


List of IFAB meetings[edit]

User:Grover cleveland/History of the laws of the game/List of IFAB meetings

Illustrations[edit]

Scottish FA Law[edit]

Search for "Scottish association rules". Common, starting March 1877.

Plan of football field (1897)[edit]

https://books.google.com/books?id=Tiw9AAAAYAAJ&pg=PA427#

"Football at Rugby, Eton and Harrow (1864[edit]

https://books.google.com/books?id=PGUJAAAAQAAJ&pg=PA246

Detailed descriptions.


Corner after goal from goal-kick?? (1890s)[edit]

VICTOBU (Aahfordl.—l. If a goalkeeper taken a goal kick and the wind blow* the ball back again and through the goal, the kick would taken from the corner flag. 2. Under the Mine circumstances, and If the hall went the touch-line, a corner would given to the opposing side.

https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000986/18931016/051/0004

When is the ball in play?[edit]

Year Kick-off Free kick Penalty kick Goal kick Corner kick
1887 Rolls over —
1895 Travels distance of its own circumference
1905 Travels distance of its own circumference Travels distance of its own circumference Travels distance of its own circumference Travels distance of its own circumference
1936 Travels distance of its own circumference Travels distance of its own circumference Leaves penalty area Travels distance of its own circumference
1937 Travels distance of its own circumference Travels distance of its own circumference and leaves penalty area (if necessary) Leaves penalty area Travels distance of its own circumference
1938 < x <= 1966 Travels distance of its own circumference Travels distance of its own circumference and leave penalty area (if necessary) Travels distance of its own circumference Leaves penalty area Travels distance of its own circumference
1997 Kicked and moves Kicked and moves and leaves penalty area (if necessary) Kicked and moves Leaves penalty area Kicked and moves
2016 Kicked and clearly moves Kicked and clearly moves and leaves penalty area (if necessary) Kicked and clearly moves Leaves penalty area Kicked and clearly moves
2019 Kicked and clearly moves Kicked and clearly moves Kicked and clearly moves Kicked and clearly moves Kicked and clearly moves

Titles of the laws[edit]

1938:

LAW I. THE FIELD OF PLAY
LAW II. THE BALL
LAW III. NUMBER OF PLAYERS
LAW IV. PLAYERS' EQUIPMENT
LAW V. REFEREES
LAW VI. LINESMEN
LAW VII. THE FIELD OF PLAY
LAW VIII. THE FIELD OF PLAY
LAW IX. THE FIELD OF PLAY
LAW X. METHOD OF SCORING
LAW XI. OFF-SIDE
LAW XII. FOULS AND MISCONDUCT
LAW XIII. FREE-KICK
LAW XIV. PENALTY-KICK
LAW XV. THROW-IN
LAW XVI. GOAL-KICK
LAW XVII. CORNER-KICK

Evolution of titles:

Law 1938 1996 1997 2016
1 The Field of Play
2 The Ball
3 Number of Players The Number of Players The Players
4 Players' Equipment The Players' Equipment
5 Referees The Referee
6 Linesmen Assistant Referees The Assistant Referees The Other Match Officials
7 Duration of the Game The Duration of the Match
8 The Start of Play The Start and Restart of Play
9 Ball In and Out of Play The Ball In and Out of Play
10 Method of Scoring The Method of Scoring Determining the Outcome of a Match
11 Off-Side Offside
12 Fouls and Misconduct
13 Free-Kick Free Kicks
14 Penalty-Kick The Penalty Kick
15 Throw-In The Throw-In
16 Goal-Kick The Goal Kick
17 Corner-Kick The Corner Kick


Changes:

between 1987 and 1996:

  • 6: Linesmen -> Assistant Referees

1997:

  • 3: Number of Players -> THE Number of Players
  • 5: Referees -> The Referee
  • 6: Assistant Referees -> The Assistant Referees
  • 7: Duration of the Game -> The Duration of the Match
  • 8: Start of Play -> The Start and Restart of Play

Rugby Football Union laws[edit]

Laws of 1889?? here

IFRB[edit]

History of Rugby [Union] scoring[edit]

Year Dropped goal Goal from fair catch /
goal from mark 		Goal from try-at-goal /
converted try 		Unsuccessful try-at-goal /
unconverted try 		Goal from penalty
1820s (Rugby School) 1 1 — — —
1830s (Rugby School) 1 1 1 0 —
1871 (RFU) 1 1 1 0 —
1875 November (RFU) 1 1 1 Tie
breaker 		—
1886 October (RFU) 3 3 3 1 —
1888 (RFU) 3 3 3 1 3
1889 March (RFU) 3 3 3 1 2
1891 September (IRFB) 4 4 5 2 3

Messing up the Laws of the Game[edit]

  • 1863-1902: Laws of the Game, followed by Definition of Terms
  • 1903: Laws of the Game, each with Decisions of the International Board appended, followed by Definition of Terma
  • 1904-1905: Laws of the Game, with Decisions of the International Board as footnotes, folllowed by Definition of Terms
  • 1907-: Laws of the Games with Decisions of the International Board as lettered footnotes, followed by Definition of Terms
  • 1913-1923: Spalding's Guide inserts "Official Decisions", "Instructions to Referees", "Instructions to Secretaries", and "Instructions to Players". "Official Decisions" includes Decisions of the International Board, but also others (e.g. FA Council). Definition of Terms remains as a separate section.
  • <= 1919: FA Referees' Chart uses a 5-column format: Text of the Laws; Official Decisions; Instructions to Referees; Instructions to Secretaries; Instructions to Players. Definition of Terms are included in "Official Decisions" (along with everything else such as FA Council).
  • 1924: (The Sphinx): each law is followed by relevant DOIB and Definition of Terms, with no clear demarcation of which is which.
  • 1933: (Games, Sports, and Pastimes): Laws are given seriatim, followed by separate "Definitions of Terms". DOIB omitted.
  • 1938: Laws rewritten. Old DOIB and Def of Terms are removed.
  • 1939: (Laws of Games and Sports): Laws followed by undifferentiated DOIB, decisions, advice, etc. in small type.
  • <= 1950: FA Referees' Chart now "Text of the Laws"; "Advice to Referees"; "Official Decisions"; "Advice to Secretaries"; "Advice to Players".
  • 1956: "The FA propose to embody the official decisions of the International Board and the FIFA Referees' Committee under the heading -- International Board Decisions, 1956". It appears under this heading in the 1956 Referees' Chart, replacing the old "Official Decisions" column.

Comments on DOIB in IFAB meetings[edit]

  • 1954: Board invited by FIFA Referees' Committee to comment on player stooping with head.
  • 1950: "Enquiry submitted to the Board" space within the inside areas of the field of play include the width of the lines marking these areas"
  • 1949: "Questions submitted to the International Board": match should be abandoned if the crossbar is displaced and there is no available means of replacing it.
  • 1948: "Question submitted by the SFA": Law 10 defines the only method by which a game may be won; no variation therefrom may be permitted.
  • 1937: "Decision of the International Board": 7.a. (keeper handling). Last explicit reference to DOIB. "It is not permissible for the goalkeeper to receive the all into his hands from a goal-kick or a free-kick taken by the defending side within the penalty area ... in order that he may thereafter kick it into play"....
  • 1936: DOIB 7.a added: old 7.a -> 7.b. 2.b added. 12.b. amended.
  • 1935: DOIB 13.a. deleted.
  • 1934: Does use terminology "Official Decisions" with date (law 12). DOIB 13.a. added.
  • 1933: DOIB 17.a amended.
  • 1932: DOIB 1.a. amended DOIB 17.b. amended (rejected).
  • 1930: DOIB 1.a. referred to merely as a "footnote". DOIB 17 referred to as "official decision". Both "DOIB" and "Footnote" used in reference to 13. DOIB 13.b substituted.
  • 1929: DOIB 8.a. amendment rejected. DOIB 13.a. amendment rejected. DOIB 17.1. amendment rejected. DEFINITION OF TERMS still in use.
  • 1928: DOIB 1.a. reaffirmed (called a "footnote")
  • 1927: DOIB 1.a. inserted ("Footnote"). Old 1.a -> 1.b. DOIB 13.e. inserted. old 13.e becomes 13. ("Footnotes").
  • 1926: DOIB 9 referred to as "marginal note".
  • 1925: DOIB 6.a. deleted. ("Delete this footnote").

Newspaper debates over laws[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ date uncertain
  2. ^ From 1938 onwards, described in the laws as a "direct" free-kick
  3. ^ From 1938 onwards, described in the laws as an "indirect" free-kick
  4. ^ "Football: Barnes v Civil Service". Bell's Life in London and Sporting Chronicle (2, 330). London: 2. 1866-12-15.
  5. ^ Penalty only if intentional on an opponent
  6. ^ Penalty only if intentional
  7. ^ Penalty only if intentional
  8. ^ IFK unless facing own goal and wilfully impeding opponent; penalty if willful
  9. ^ Penalty only if intentional
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