Law 7

The Duration of the Match


Periods of Play The match lasts two equal periods of 45 minutes, unless otherwise mutually agreed between the referee and the two participating teams. Any agreement to alter the periods of play (for example to reduce each half to 40 minutes because of insufficient light) must be made before the start of play and must comply with competition rules.

Half-Time Interval Players are entitled to an interval at half-time. The half-time interval must not exceed 15 minutes. Competition rules must state the duration of the half-time interval. The duration of the half-time interval may be altered only with the consent of the referee.

Allowance for Time Lost Allowance is made in either period for all time lost through:
	substitutions
	assessment of injury to players
	removal of injured players from the field of play for treatment
	wasting time
	any other cause

The allowance for time lost is at the discretion of the referee.

Penalty Kick If a penalty kick has to be taken or retaken, the duration of either half is extended until the penalty kick is completed.

Abandoned Match An abandoned match is replayed unless the competition rules provide otherwise.

Copyright © 2006 Grantham & District Referees' Association
Last modified: June 27, 2006
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