Rules for Nine-sided matches for Under 11 year olds (with limited offside). 

   Read more about interim format betwen 11 sided football and mini soccer.

The game is for boys & girls who must be 10 as at midnight on 31/8/10, and under the age of 11 as at midnight on 31/8/10 (mixed football is allowed)

1. Team size should be 9 v 9. The playing area should be 80 yds X 50 yds (73.2m x x 45m)
2. The offside area extends 18 yds (16.5m) from the goal line across the whole width of the playing area regardless of its size. The penalty area is 18 yards from each goal post and extends to the goal area line. Cones may be used to mark it out.
3. The goal size for all age groups is 12ft X 6ft (3.6m x 1.8m). The Coca-Cola Big Red Bag and Samba goals are suitable. Please note in view of a number of accidents that have occurred it is necessary to ensure that portable goals are either pinned or weighted to prevent them toppling forward
4. The ball should be a size 4. Lightweight balls are permitted.
5. A maximum of 7 substitutes may be used at any time with the permission of the game leader/ referee. Players may re-enter the game and all substitutes must have a period of play.
6. Players are required to wear shin-guards at all times
7. A Referee should be allocated to every match. It is his decision as to whether he requires Assistant Referees to run the line.
8. Duration of matches should be 3 periods of 20 minutes. With no one playing more than 60 minutes per day.
9. The kick off is taken in the centre of the playing area to start the game and after a goal has been scored.
10. The offside rule will only apply inside the 18 yard (16.5m) line.
11. The free kick rule will apply as per 11 a side rules. ie both direct and indirect Free kicks will be awarded.
12. Penalty kicks are taken from the penalty spot which is 12 yds (11m) opposite the centre of the goal
13. Throw ins should be taken in the normal way. A foul throw should be given another chance after which it shall be awarded to the opponent.
14. The opposition should be at least 10 yds (9m) away when a corner, free kick or goal kick is awarded.
15. Goalkeepers can handle the ball in the penalty area and there are no restrictions on the number of steps they may take when holding the ball.
16. Goal kicks must be taken from within the 6 yd goal area and must leave the penalty area before being touched.
17. Back Pass The back pass rule does apply. In the event that the goalkeeper picks the ball up from a pass by his own team mate. A direct free kick shall be taken from the edge of the penalty area parallel with where the ball was picked up
18. Common sense should prevail at all times.

Except where other wise provided above, the Laws of Association football will apply.