A defender (Team A) commits a reckless tackle against an attacker (Team B) outside the penalty area. The referee stops play, awards a free kick and calls the defender for a caution. Before the yellow card is shown, an attacker takes a quick free kick and Team B has a clear goal-scoring opportunity. What is the correct decision?

Question

Accepted Answer

The referee stops play because the disciplinary procedure had started and 'distracted' the offender who is unfairly out of position and unable to take part in the game. After the caution is issued, play restarts with the original free kick for Team B.