Diagonal (football)
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Contents |
[edit] Outline
In association football, the diagonal system of control is the method referees and assistant referees use to position themselves.
[edit] Quadrants
The football pitch is effectively split into four quadrants; one each for the two assistants, and two for the referee. Before the game, the assistants are instructed by the referee as to which quadrants they will marshall; one in either half, on opposite sides, following the left back or right back for offsides.
The referee will then run in a 'figure of eight' style pattern, in order to cover the ground not covered by his two assistants.
[edit] Assistants following left backs
| Quadrant 1 | Quadrant 2 |
|---|---|
| Referee | Assistant |
| Assistant | Referee |
| Quadrant 3 | Quadrant 4 |
[edit] Assistants following right backs
| Quadrant 1 | Quadrant 2 |
|---|---|
| Assistant | Referee |
| Referee | Assistant |
| Quadrant 3 | Quadrant 4 |
[edit] Why it works
This way, all of the pitch is covered, and the referee can complete a circle without needing to turn his back to play. Movement should be fluid and in a circular motion; in other words, the referee does not stop and turn around sharply, rather gradually turn the corner as if moving around the top or bottom of a figure '8'.
