Throw-in

A throw-in must be taken with both hands from behind and over the head, with both feet on or behind the touchline. An incorrect throw-in gives possession to the opposing team.

The full rule

The throw-in is awarded when the ball fully crosses the touchline, either on the ground or in the air. The thrower must face the field, use both hands equally, deliver the ball from behind and over the head, and have part of both feet on the touchline or on the ground outside. Lifting a foot at the moment of release is a foul throw. A goal cannot be scored directly from a throw-in. If the ball enters the thrower's own goal directly, a corner is awarded. The thrower cannot touch the ball again until another player has.

Key points

✓Both hands must be used, delivering from behind and over the head
✓Both feet must be on or behind the touchline at the moment of release
✓Cannot score directly from a throw-in
✓Thrower cannot touch the ball again before another player does
✓Foul throw gives possession to the opposing team

Scenarios

Scenario 1

One foot lifted during the throw

Foul

A player takes a throw-in but lifts their back foot off the ground at the moment of release.

Correct call: Foul throw. Both feet must be in contact with the ground at the point of release.

Common mistake: Allowing the throw because both feet were on the ground at the start of the motion. The feet must remain grounded at the moment the ball is released.

Scenario 2

Ball thrown directly into the goal

No goal

A player takes a long throw-in that goes directly into the opponent's goal without any other player touching it.

Correct call: Goal kick. A goal cannot be scored directly from a throw-in.

Common mistake: Awarding a goal because the ball clearly crossed the line. The method of delivery makes it illegal.