5-a-side match rules

Normal Association Footbal Rules apply, except for the adjustments below.

1. Each game is of one 20-minute period or until the end of the time allowed for the match to be played – whichever is the sooner.
2. Goals can be scored from any part of the pitch.
3. There are unlimited substitutions.
4. Substitutions can be made only when play has been stopped.
5. A player substituted may return to the game as a substitute himself.
6. All four walls may be used but if the ball travels behind the goal it is the goalkeeper’s ball
7. Players may be ‘Sin Binned’* for five minutes if necessary.
8. The ball must be kept below head height. If not, an indirect free kick to the opposite team from the place where the ball was kicked shall be awarded.
9. If the ball comes off the keeper and goes high it is “goalkeeper’s ball”.
10. Players must not use their hands on the wall for support or as an aid to shield the ball.
11. Goalkeepers can only bowl the ball out under arm. They must not kick it out.
12. Goalkeepers are not allowed outside their area. If a goalkeeper deliberately comes out of his area a penalty shall be awarded to the opposite side.
13. Opposition must stand 2 metres away from the ball at free kicks.
14. A player may take only a 2-step approach to kick a penalty.
15. No slide tackles are allowed.
16. Restart after a goal with a throw-out by the beaten goalkeeper.
17. All matters of dispute should be raised with the League Administrator and their decision is final.
18. Captains must fill in and sign the result card at reception immediately after their game ends.
19. If the ball goes out of bounds, the ball is given to the opposition’s keeper.
20. One player can only play for one team
21. No other players may enter the goalkeepers area:-

• If an attacker deliberately enters the area, it is the goalkeeper’s ball;
• If a defender deliberately enters the area it is a penalty.

* an area off the field of play where a player who has committed a foul can be sent to sit for a specified period