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Yeah, I could have clarified that bit further. If they look like they want a QFK, I'll get close quickly so they can quietly ask me in case that's what they're waiting for. If they don't ask and don't just take the QFK, I'll be nearby and can move to a ceremonial as soon as 5-10 seconds have passed.Note that you don't need to "give" permission for them to take a quick one... but otherwise, your approach seems pretty fair.
What's a free kick?Probably the easiest way around this issue is to simply not give free kicks.
Is it though? Even on TV we see the occasional one. I disagree that this is the 'expectation'. No surprise you were told otherwise - plenty of incompetent assessors and referee coaches out there.The expectation at senior levels is that if it is within shooting distance it is always on the whistle.

