Substitution Signal

[Ref_AC]

(I’ve never reffed or ran the lines, but will be starting soon)

Previously, I’ve assumed AR1 shows the signal when the ball goes out of play, then runs over to the Technical Areas write down the details of the substitution.

Today however, while watching a match, I noticed AR2 used the signal whilst AR1 was writing it down. I missed any signal from AR1. They weren’t using comms systems however they usually do, so this may be why AR2 was also signalling.

Can someone please clarify the use of the signal and the substitution procedure for both assistants?

 

[Gabriel]

Generally speaking you only use the signal as an AR where the referee isn't aware of a team wanting to make a substitution, or when there are no comms etc. As AR2, you only ever signal for a sub if the referee is looking in your general direction and hasn't seen AR1 signal for it. If the referee is aware of the need for a sub, and has already stopped play for that reason, there is no need to signal as the AR. Best advice I was given from a Specialist AR (for subs but also works with everything else), when on the line less is more. Don't signal if it doesn't add any value.

 

[Refollie]

Yeah AR2 should only be making the signal if the referee hasn’t seen AR1 trying to get his attention. So in matches with buzzers/comms it’s basically unnecessary

 

[RustyRef]

It used to be known as a mirrored flag, if the referee hadn't seen AR1 as play was in AR2's area that mirrored flag helped to avoid any delays. Still a useful technique at levels where comms aren't used and even when using buzzers they are known to malfunction.

 

[santa sangria]

This also depends where you are in the world.

Where I am - small Nordic country - we mirror the sub flags. If no comms we often mirror the sub-tip for the ref flag (holding the flag down in front to tip the ref is sub is requested), and then whether there is comms or not, AR2 must mirror the AR1 sub flag (that triggers the sub event).

In our top 3 divisions it’s mandatory to mirror the sub flag and in the 4th it’s something that acts a bit of a test for aspiring ARs - especially without comms the most attentive ARs have no problem mirroring - but arrogant unfocused ARs miss them.