Match official in action

The restart

The restart is a means to continue with play after points have been scored or at the start of each half of a match.

Aims for the MOs

• To restart play with a fair contest for the ball.

Referee’s focus

• The kick and the place where the ball lands.

Communication

• Voice: Ensure teams are ready before allowing play to proceed.
• Signal: None applicable at this phase.
• Whistle: For kick-off this is the only time you use the whistle to start, rather than to stop, the game.

Laws (top three priorities)

• For kick-off, check that the correct type of kick is used.
• Watch for the kicker’s team mates moving in front of the ball before it is kicked.
• Check that the ball travels a minimum of 10m.