Official 5 A Side Football Rules at FootballFive5 WA
Welcome to the comprehensive rules page for FootballFive5 WA. Here, you’ll find everything you need to know about the regulations that ensure fair play and enjoyment for all our participants.
Game Duration & Structure
- Senior matches: Two halves of 20 minutes each with a 2-minute halftime break.
- Junior matches: Two halves of 18 minutes each with a 2-minute halftime break.
- Finals tiebreaker: Extra time consists of two halves of 3 minutes each, followed by a penalty shootout if necessary.
Team Composition & Substitutions
- Up to 8 players allowed per team, with 5 on the pitch and up to 3 substitutes.
- A minimum of 4 players required to start a match.
- Unlimited substitutions permitted throughout the game.
- Mixed teams must field at least two female players at all times.
Commencing Play & In-Game Rules
- The match begins with a coin toss to decide sides and kick-off.
- No throw-ins; the ball is kicked in from the sideline.
- No offside rules apply.
- All free kicks are indirect, with the opposing team at least 2 meters away from the ball.
- Penalty kicks are taken from the edge of the penalty area.
Goalkeeping Rules
- Goalkeepers must not leave the penalty area; doing so results in a penalty unless it’s from momentum while making a save.
- The keeper can distribute the ball with feet or hands but cannot kick the ball out of their hands.
- Goalkeepers have 6 seconds to release the ball and cannot pick up a ball passed by a teammate.
Equipment & Safety
- Shin pads are mandatory for all players.
- No slide tackles; persistent sliding is cautioned.
- Teams must wear matching shirts; goalkeepers in a distinct colour.
- Screw-in studs are prohibited; only moulded studs or joggers are allowed.
Handling Misconduct
- Yellow card leads to a temporary dismissal; the player may be substituted.
- Two yellow cards or a direct red card results in dismissal without substitution.
- Misconduct could lead to suspension or removal from the league.
Click here for the full list of FootballFive5 WA Playing Rules.
FAQ
For quick answers to common questions about the rules and gameplay, check out our Top 5 Q&A section.
Visit the Q&A Page
What are the match durations for senior and junior games in Football Fives WA?
Senior matches consist of two 20-minute halves with a 2-minute halftime break. Junior matches have two 18-minute halves with a 2-minute break. There are no extra times for standard league games; ties are considered draws.
How many players are allowed in a team, and what are the rules for substitutions?
A team can have up to 8 players (5 on the field and 3 substitutes). Matches require a minimum of 4 players to start. Substitutions are unlimited, but the referee must be informed before making one. In mixed teams, at least two female players must be on the field.
What are the equipment requirements and safety rules during matches?
All players must wear shin pads. Slide tackles are prohibited and penalised by a free kick. Teams must wear matching shirts, and goalkeepers should have distinctively coloured shirts. Only boots with moulded studs or joggers are permitted.
How are misconduct and disciplinary actions handled in the game?
A yellow card results in a 2-minute expulsion from the field, but the player can be replaced. Two yellows or a direct red card lead to a match expulsion without replacement. Referee decisions are final, and arguing can result in disciplinary action. Serious misconduct may lead to suspension or league removal.
What are the rules regarding goalkeepers?
Goalkeepers must stay within the penalty area, cannot kick the ball out of their hands, and can’t pick up a ball passed from a teammate. They must release the ball within 6 seconds. Breaking these rules results in an indirect free kick to the opposition.
