Offside in the penalty area?

Question

Do you think that the offside rule should not apply to situations when both the passer and the reciever of the ball are in the penalty area (regardless of position of defensive line)?
Please provide arguments for Yes or No

Answer 1

On the surface it sounds like a reasonable idea ,as the ball and offending players would be in proximity, and it makes defenders more responsible for their opponents.

However, there are a couple of reasons against it;
Offside is hard enough for the officials now, especially with the passive offside rule.

An extra rule would make it more difficult - they would also have to judge whether both players are in the area or not. At the speed the game is played this is not easy, especially considering they might not see across the other side to the side lines of the penalty area.

A striker could also stand in front of the goalkeeper, blocking his vision or run at the ball. This is possible now with passive offside as long as the player doesn't touch the ball. (My thoughts are anywhere in the 6 yard box cannot be considered passive).

In short, i think simplifying offside is a better option, rather than adding an extra dimension to it.

Answer 2

Yes, if the passer and the receiver are both in the penalty area, there should be no offsides. Even if the receiver goes behind the defender early, at that point the defender is already right next to him, and also the goalie can interfer. Good idea.

Answer 3

Yes. Often if not all the time, it doesn't help. The point of the rule is to avoid advantage by positioning one self behind the last def fence.

There's not that many room in the penalty area. If they are only one inch away then it doesn't really gain them that much advantage. It really wasn't the point of the rule in the first place.

Answer 4

Yes I agree with you. Offsides should not be in affect inside the box.