Pedagogue wrote:scott_powell wrote:But if you follow the game by the rulebook then it wasn't a penalty. Gilmartin definitely got a hand on it.
Scott - I haven't seen yesterday's incident so I can't comment on it but I can comment on your erroneous statement. Under the Laws of Association Football, it is not relevant that the player touched the ball. It is what he does to the opposing player that matters (and where the referee has to judge the intent of the tackler - not always easy - and leads to much argument/debate!). It is perfectly possible to play the ball AND foul an opponent at the same time.
It is possible, a little to possible in todays game. Physical contact used to be a part of the game. If you get the ball first, contact with the opposing player should be allowed, unless it is dangerous play. This comes more in to play with outfield players tackling too. Sadly it is something they have almost removed from the game, and the game is worse for it in my opinion.