Direct free kick

From ArticleWorld

A player uses a direct free kick in the sport of football as a method of resuming play following a foul. The term direct means that the player is able to shoot and score if possible from the free kick, distinguishing it from the alternative of an in-direct free kick.

Exclusion Area

For a direct free kick to be awarded a team must have committed a penal foul, which essentially means a heavy tackle, a push or a trip. If the infringement takes place within the penalty are the direct free kick becomes a penalty kick, which must be taken from the penalty spot 12 yards (11 metres) from the goal line. In a penalty situation the defending team can only have the goalkeeper in place to defend the shot, no other players are permitted to enter the area whilst the kick is being taken. However in a standard direct free kick situation players are allowed to block the shot, with the one stipulation that they must do so from a distance of 10 yards or 9.15 metres. This exclusion 10-yard exclusion zone extends from the ball and covers all directions, affording the attacking team the freedom to conjure something different if necessary or to simply have an easy shot.

Skills and Rulings

The direct free kick has become an important part of modern football, each team may assign an individual or a couple of players to be designated free kick takers. With improved football technology and lighter balls the modern direct free kick is considered a dangerous weapon, with many players becoming famous for their exploits including David Beckham and Roberto Carlos. Some use raw power whilst others attempt a more measured curling shot reliant on accuracy. Measures to prevent free kicks from a clear path to goal usually include a wall of players, who huddle in a line to obstruct the direct passage. The wall must remain in the same position without encroachment although they are permitted to jump in order to block the ball. However if the wall does move forward the referee may warn them, if it occurs more than once they may be cautioned. The one major rule that a free kick taker must adhere to is that the ball can only be struck once, if they strike it twice the free kick is reversed.