What about the shoe?

First and foremost, thanks for all the questions and words of support. We love it.

FAQ #2. What about the shoe?

I have received a lot of questions from interested referees regarding the correct decision for the player who removed her shoe(s) during the Japan vs England match.

Answer: FIFA encourages referees to allow players to demonstrate their joy when scoring a goal. However it may not be excessive. Of course, making gestures with are provocative, climbing on the perimeter fence, removing the shirt or covering your head or face with a mask is prohibited. FIFA expects referee to act in a preventative manner and exercise common sense. Since this instance was not deemed excessive, and no time was wasted (she got those things on and off quickly), FIFA agreed with my decision to exercise common sense, intervene and get play started quickly and allowing for the expression of joy as it was intended with NO caution. As always as referees, we need to read the game and act within the letter and the spirit of the law.

All the best. Kari