GAELIC FOOTBALLERS WILL be able to call a ‘mark’ when catching a ball cleanly from a kick out after Congress voted to approve the motion this afternoon.
The new rule means that players will have the option of taking a free kick (within five seconds) or playing on immediately when a “player catches the ball cleanly from a kick-out — without it touching the ground — on or past the 45m line nearest the kick-out point.”
The new rule will be introduced without a trial and was supported by 68% of attendees, just above the two-thirds majority required.
If a player indicates he wishes to take a mark, he will be allowed up to five seconds to take the kick. If the player delays for longer than five seconds, the referee will cancel the mark and play will restart with a throw-ball.
Once a mark is called, the opposing team must retreat 10m and, if they impede the player who called the mark, the referee will move the ball forward 13m.
If a player chooses to play on, they cannot be challenged until they carry the ball four consecutive steps or holds the ball for longer than the time needed to make four step and makes “one act of kicking, hand passing, bouncing or toe-tapping the ball.”
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