Possible Delay of Game May 1, 2019 World Games 2014 0 Forum Questions Late in a close game, the Goalie (from the leading team) makes a save, his momentum takes him to the ground, and he lands on the ball -- apparently, unbeknownst to him -- while still in the crease. He doesn't have possession of the ball, so I don't think a four-second count should start; but I'm not sure if Withholding is applicable in the crease. With time being critical for the trailing team, should there be Withholding, Delay of Game, or something else? Or nothing at all? Question File Add new DuBan's Answer: Visual Text Kratz's Answer: Visual Text McCarrick's Answer: Visual Text Riti's Answer: Visual Text Tyma's Answer: Visual Text This would not be delaying the game, which occurs only during dead-ball situations. The ball cannot remain in a state where it cannot be played; keeping it from play is a technical foul per Rule 6.12. However, the second article and associated note in Rule 4.7 could be applied here, particularly given that time is of the essence. Because the ball is underneath the goalie, one could make the case that the ball is trapped by his uniform or equipment while he and the ball are in the crease. The Article 2 allows the official to suspend play immediately, and the note indicates that possession would then be awarded to the defensive team. The defense thus would not be gaining an unfair advantage and allowing time to run off the clock without giving the riding team a chance to play the ball. Applicable rules: 6.12: When a loose ball is on the ground, a player shall not lie on the ball, trap it with his crosse longer than is necessary for him to control the ball and pick it up with one continuous motion, or withhold the ball from play in any other manner. A player, players or team <em><strong>shall not deliberately withhold the ball from play</strong></em>. Repeated actions of this nature shall be ruled unsportsmanlike conduct. 4.7: ART. 1 . . . If at any point the ball becomes stuck in the front or back of the crosse, there shall be an immediate whistle and the ball awarded to the opposing team. This rule also applies when a player loses his crosse and the ball remains in or under the head of the crosse. ART. 2 . . . If the ball is caught in a player’s uniform or equipment other than his crosse, play shall be suspended immediately, and the ball shall be awarded according to the alternate-possession rule. NOTE: Neither situation above applies to a designated goalkeeper if he is within his goal-crease area at the time the ball becomes stuck. In this case, a defensive player shall be awarded the ball in the crease. Answer File Question Answered Yes No
