How the day runs.

There is no offside.

Sliding or slide tackling is not permitted under any circumstances.

→ Direct free kick to the opposition

• All free kicks are direct
• Defenders must stand 5 yards (approx. 5 steps) away

When the ball leaves the field: play restarts with a kick-in. Throw-ins are not used. Corners are taken as normal.

• Must remain inside their designated goal area
• May only leave the area when taking a penalty

→ Leaving the area = direct free kick

Goalkeepers cannot pick up the ball from a deliberate pass using a teammate's foot. Players may use their head, chest or shoulder to return the ball first.

→ Results in a direct free kick

• Rolling substitutions, unlimited in number
• Players may only enter with the referee's permission
• Substitutes must wait behind their team's goal

The team plays with one fewer player. The player returns after two minutes.

Offences include:

• Unsporting behaviour, reckless challenges & persistent fouling
• Deliberate handball & simulation (diving)
• Dissent, or entering/leaving the field without permission
• Unsporting celebrations & provoking opponents

Immediate dismissal. The team plays with one fewer player, and the player is automatically suspended for the next match. Serious offences may result in removal from the tournament.

Offences include:

• Serious foul play, dangerous tackles & violent conduct
• Fighting, punching, kicking or elbowing
• Denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity
• Deliberate handball to stop a goal
• Offensive, abusive or discriminatory language, or spitting
• Throwing objects aggressively, or referee abuse
• Receiving two yellow cards

Teams must arrive on time for every fixture.

→ Late to kick-off = automatic 3–0 forfeit

Referee decisions are final. Abuse towards referees, organisers or opponents may result in forfeiture, suspension, or disqualification.

If a knockout match finishes level: best of 3 penalties, followed by sudden death if required.

• Taken from the blue line, with unlimited run-up
• Goalkeepers must keep one foot on the line until the ball is struck
• Encroachment resulting in a save = retake

Captains are responsible for their players, substitutes and supporters. Repeated misconduct from any team may result in removal from the competition.

Supporters must stay outside the playing area at all times. If spectators enter the pitch, play will be stopped until the area is cleared.

Astro or 3G football boots only. No flat trainers. Shin pads are strongly recommended.