A player takes a throw-in and throws the ball towards a goalkeeper (a team-mate). The goalkeeper clearly attempts to kick the ball but fails to release it into play. After that, the ball accidentally touches the goalkeeper’s hand inside their penalty area. What is the correct decision?

Question

Accepted Answer

The referee allows play to continue. When the goalkeeper clearly tries to kick the ball into play, this shows no intention to handle the ball, so if the ‘clearance’ attempt is unsuccessful, the goalkeeper can handle the ball.