A defender shields the ball from an attacker when it is within playing distance and does not use their hands or arms to hold off the opponent. The attacker tries to gain possession of the ball and holds the defender.. After the referee stops play, the defender deliberately strikes the attacker with their hand. What is the correct decision?

Question

Accepted Answer

The defender legally shielded the ball from the opponent, so the referee awards a direct free kick to the defender’s team as the holding offence occurred before the striking offence. The attacker may be cautioned (yellow card) for unsporting behaviour if the holding was considered blatant/provocative. The defender must be sent off (red card) for violent conduct.