Play of the week: RSL vs LA

In week 15’s Play of the week, PRO Training & Development Manager Paul Rejer looks at Real Salt Lake’s first two goals in their match against LA Galaxy.

In the build-up to the two goals, it’s clear to see referee Drew Fischer utilise the approved advantage signal following foul challenges.

So, this week, Paul examines a referee’s thought process when he considers playing advantage.

He explained: “The definition of advantage is a condition or circumstance that puts one team in a favourable position.

“The referee’s first consideration is whether to allow play to continue when a team against which an offence has been committed will benefit from such an advantage, or to penalize the original offence if the anticipated advantage does not ensue at that time. If a team has possession of the ball, it does not always constitute an advantage.

“So what should a referee’s thought process be? Below I have listed important considerations that the referee has to make:

•    Skill level
•    Conditions of the FOP
•    State of the match
•    Position on the field of Play
•    Temperature of the match
•    Control of the ball
•    Seriousness of the tackle
•    Attacking opportunity
•    Referee’s control

“In the build-up to both of the goals, Drew correctly considered these aspects and the game benefitted as a consequence. Drew will no doubt be quietly happy that his vision and the correct application of the advantage clause enhanced the game with two goals.”