It’s a rule we all know. It’s tested in every single game and although breaking it will disappoint your teammates and fans, nobody will head to the penalty box or dressing room. In a nutshell, the rule is “If you’re in the crease, any goal scored by your team doesn’t count”. If a player shoots while standing in the crease, even if his toes are just touching the crease line, no goal. If it’s his teammate who’s in or touching the crease, no goal. If he shoots while jumping and lands before the ball goes in, no goal. Easy, right? Actually there’s a little more to Rule #67.
The NLL rule book is available online (the 2017 version is here, at time of writing) so if you want to see the actual wording of the rule, go have a look. I’ll summarize some of the parts of the rule here and then we’ll look at what it all means.
Rule 67: Goal-crease violation
67.1 Attacking player in crease
If the guy with the ball touches the crease or crease line, his team loses possession. It doesn’t say “touching the ground” but that’s the implication; jumping over the crease is fine.
67.2 Attacking player first touch / interfere after shot on goal
If you shoot and your momentum takes you into the crease but you immediately step out, everything is copacetic as long as you’re not the first person to touch the ball or interfere with a defender afterwards. However, it refers to touching the ball after you get out of the crease; it’s not clear what happens if the ball goes in the net. Rule 55.2 says “A Crease Violation will result in a no goal. See Crease Violation Rule 67.” Rule 67.2 says that if you immediately step out of the crease (and don’t touch the ball first, which won’t happen if you score), you are not in violation of the rule which implies that any goal scored in such a situation would count. We’ll come back to this.
67.3 Attacking player in crease to gain advantage
If you (as an attacker but without the ball) go into the crease and then leave it, and doing this gives you an advantage (as decided by the ref), and then you grab the ball or interfere with a defender, your team loses possession. I believe an example would be if you go through the crease to get around a pick.
67.4 Attacking player in crease to gain advantage on defender
Same as the previous rule but if you initiate contact with an opposing player who has the ball, that’s a delay of game penalty rather than just a change of possession. We saw this called on Dhane Smith at last week’s game in Toronto – it was called as “Delay of Game – checking through the crease” and nobody had any idea what it meant.
67.5 Non shooter in crease when teammate shoots
The title is a little misleading. If any member of the attacking team is in the crease when the ball crosses the goal line, the goal does not count. It has nothing to do with when the shooter shoots. In a recent Toronto Rock game, a Rock player shot while another Rock player was in the crease but the ball hit the goalie and slowly trickled over the line. After a review, the refs determined that the non-shooter had left the crease by the time the ball went in so the goal counted.
67.6 Shooter in crease prior to ball crossing goal line
This is the one we’re all familiar with. If you shoot and any part of you is in contact with the crease before the ball goes in, the goal does not count. This one is slightly more explicit than 67.1; it does say you need to be touching the ground. Shooting while in the air over the crease is fine as long as it goes in before you land – just ask Mark Matthews, Curtis Dickson, or any of the dozens of other players who like to score while diving through the crease.
There’s an addendum which is oddly specific: if you shoot and the ball hits the goalie and then hits a defender and then goes in, it counts as long as the shooter is out of the crease by the time the ball crosses the line. We’ll get back to this one as well.
What does it all mean?
There are actually nine more sections of this rule, all the way up to 67.15, but I’m just looking at the ones above. For the most part, the rule says what we expect: if you or anyone else on your team is touching the ground in the crease (including the crease line) at the moment the ball crosses the goal line, the goal does not count. If you intentionally step into the opponent’s crease with or without the ball, it’s either a loss of possession or a penalty. If you accidentally step in and immediately get out (and you don’t have the ball), that’s OK.
The confusing part for me is the apparent contradiction between rules 67.2 and 67.6. We have:
- Rule 67.2 implies (but doesn’t say explicitly) that if you shoot, step in, get out, and then the ball crosses the line in that order, the goal counts.
- The first part of 67.6 says that if you step in the crease before the ball crosses the goal line, the goes does not count.
- The second part of 67.6 says that if you shoot, step in and then out, the ball hits the goalie and a defender and then goes in after you’ve stepped out, then it does count.
#1 and #2 together seem to contradict each other, but it could be that #1 covers the case where the shooter has time to get out of the crease before the ball goes in, while #2 covers the case where he does not.
But if #1 is true, why is #3 listed at all, since it’s just a special case of #1? It’s like having rules saying (a) “If you’re driving over 50 km/h in a school zone, you get a fine” and (b) “If you’re driving over 50 km/h in a school zone and your car is red, you get a fine”. But doesn’t (b) imply that you do not get a fine if you’re speeding in a green car? No, because (b) is covered by (a). (b) is not necessary at all and doesn’t clarify anything; it only serves to add confusion.
Update:In at least two and possibly three games in the week since this article was published, a shooter has stepped into and out of the crease after shooting but before the ball crossed the line. In every case, the goal was waved off. Perhaps it’s just me who thinks the rule is not explicit, but It seems clear how the refs are interpreting this rule.
Also, why does a defender need to be involved? Why that specific order? What if it hits the goalie but not a defender? What if it hits the defender first and then the goalie? As long as the shooter is out of the crease by the time the ball crosses the line, it seems that rule 67.2 should mean the goal counts in any of these cases, but we don’t know for sure. It’s a rare situation but it would be nice if this rule was clarified.
So there you have it, the crease violation rule. Clear as mud, right?
Now, here’s a question not answered by the rule book: if I score while my teammate is just barely touching the crease line behind the net, the goal doesn’t count. Clearly my teammate’s toes in no way affected the goalie’s ability to stop the ball and didn’t give me any sort of unfair advantage. So why is the goal disallowed? And don’t say “because of rule 67.5” – I mean why does the rule exist? Why can’t the ref wave it off and say that the player’s “presence” in the crease had no effect on the play so the goal counts? That’s an exercise left for the reader.
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FAQs
Crease Violation—An offensive player cannot touch or enter the circle around the goal. If a player is shooting and steps in the crease, the goal will not count.
What will happen if I am a defender and step inside the crease line? ›
4. If a defender steps into the goal crease a violation may be called. If the team gains an advantage a penalty shot will be awarded to the opponents, which will be taken from the free throw line.
What is the ruling when the offense steps in the crease? ›
Crease violations when a goal is scored
The offensive player steps into the crease, then ball goes into goal: no goal.
Are defenders allowed to play or stand in the crease? ›
Opposing players are allowed to go into the crease as long as they do not interfere or impede his ability to stop the puck.
What is the crease rule? ›
The shaded area directly in front of a hockey goal is called the crease. This is where a hockey goalie gets busy stopping goals, and where opposing players are prohibited from interfering with the goalie.
Can you score a goal in the crease? ›
No. Rule Reference 625(b). Regardless of what player puts the puck into the goal, no goal may be scored if a player of the attacking team intentionally stands in the goal crease, with the goalkeeper in the crease, unless the puck is already in the goal crease.
Can a defender slap the backboard? ›
Slapping the backboard is neither basket interference nor goaltending. A technical may be assessed when a player strikes the backboard so forcefully it cannot be ignored, but simply slapping the backboard in an attempt to block a shot is neither a violation nor a technical foul.
Can batsman stand outside the crease? ›
1 A batter shall be considered to be out of his/her ground unless some part of his/her person or bat is grounded behind the popping crease at that end.
Can a defender touch the rim? ›
A defender also can not touch a shot after it has hit the backboard and is going towards the rim, even if it is going up. Once the ball is on or directly above the rim, a defender can not touch the ball. If the ball is rolling on top of the rim, a defender can not touch the ball or the rim.
Are you allowed to step on the line when inbounding the ball? ›
This is a violation, as a thrower-in is not permitted to step over the line separating the court from out of bounds. Following the violation, the ball would be awarded to the opposing team at the spot of the violation.”
The goalie crease is the area directly in front of the goal that is shaded a blue color and outlined with a red border. The goal crease is the main area that goalies play in during the game, to protect the goal; although they are not restricted to only playing in this area.
Can you step on the line when inbounding a basketball? ›
A player inbounding the ball may step ON, but not OVER the end line or side line. Let's take a moment and expound on what an inbounder can legally do… During a designated spot throw-in, the player inbounding the ball must keep one foot ON or OVER the three-foot wide designated spot, but can move.
Can you touch while defending in basketball? ›
Contact initiated by the defensive player guarding a player with the ball is not legal. This contact includes, but is not limited to, forearm, hands, or body check.
What is the rule 78.5 in the NHL? ›
Rule 78.5(I) When the puck has been directed, batted or thrown into the net by an attacking player other than with a stick. When this occurs, if it is deemed to be done deliberately, then the decision shall be NO GOAL.
Who is the only player that is allowed in the crease? ›
Only the goalie is allowed inside the crease. The crease is the area immediately in front of the goal where players are not permitted to enter either with their body or stick. 2. A goalie may use their hands to pick up the puck only while inside the crease.
How long can you be in the crease? ›
A player is allowed to skate through the goalie crease or enter the crease to pursue a puck that has entered into the crease. However, a player in the crease is in no way allowed to obstruct or impede the movement of the goaltender as this will result in a goaltender interference penalty for 2 minutes.
Can you score with a foot in the crease? ›
"A puck that rebounds off the goalie, the goal post or an opposing player is not deemed to be a change of possession, and therefore Hull would be deemed to be in possession or control of the puck, allowed to shoot and score a goal even though the one foot would be in the crease in advance of the puck.
Is it icing if puck goes through the crease? ›
Icing is when a player on his team's side of the red center line shoots the puck all the way down the ice and it crosses the red goal line at any point (other than the goal). Icing is not permitted when teams are at equal strength or on the power play.
Where is the face-off for a goal crease violation? ›
(1) A penalty is assessed after a goal is scored; the face-off will take place at the center ice face-off spot. (2) A penalty is assessed at the start of a period or at the end of the previous period; the face-off will take place at the center ice face-off spot.
How far can a goalie come out of the crease? ›
Goaltenders can leave their crease to make a save or play the puck – as long as it's not in the trapezoid or beyond center ice. If they leave the blue paint to join a scrum, they'll be serving time.
In simple terms, goalie interference is when an opposing player makes avoidable contact with the goalie, either inside or outside of the crease. The play does not necessarily have to result in a goal scored for the call to be made, as goalie interference can also be assessed as a penalty.
Can you dribble if the defender touches the ball? ›
You cannot start another dribble, because you have not lost control of the ball. Since touching the ground is not listed as a requirement and you lost control of the ball because another player touched it, you can start another dribble.
Can you dribble after a defender touches the ball? ›
So to deliberately throw the ball at an opponent so that you can commence your dribble again is not legal. The player must touch the ball not the ball that touches a player, a deliberate touch or deflection by the defensive player B1 which would allow for A1 to commence their dribble again.
Can you push away a defenders hand in basketball? ›
The offensive player then uses his right arm to knock away the defender's arm. This is an offensive foul, as a player cannot initiate contact to wipe away an opponent's legal arm.
Can a batsman cover all stumps? ›
As guarding the wicket may be considered a very necessary part to be observed by the batsman, we shall remark that as the bat is only four and a half inches wide and the wicket seven inches, the striker cannot guard all the three stumps ...
Can a batsman hit a wide ball? ›
When Wide ball has been called, neither batter shall be out under any of the Laws except 35 (Hit wicket), 37 (Obstructing the field), 38 (Run out) or 39 (Stumped).
Can a fielder stand straight to the bowler? ›
At the time the ball is bowled: No fielder may be standing on or with any part of his body over the pitch (the central strip of the playing area between the wickets). If his body casts a shadow over the pitch, the shadow must not move until after the batter has played (or had the opportunity to play) at the ball.
Can you push a defenders hand away? ›
The extension of his left arm from elbow to wrist to push off his defender is illegal, and it is an offensive foul. An offensive player may not push off their legal defender in any way.”
Can you pivot after 2 steps? ›
A player who receives the ball while standing still may pivot, using either foot as the pivot foot. A player who gathers the ball while progressing may take (1) two steps in coming to a stop, passing or shooting the ball, or (2) if he has not yet dribbled, one step prior to releasing the ball.
Can you airball a shot and catch it? ›
Yes, you can. It doesn't matter whether your shot hits the rim, the backboard, or just air molecules — as long as its an intentional shot, you can be the first person to touch it on a rebound.
The three seconds rule (also referred to as the three-second rule or three in the key, often termed as lane violation) requires that in basketball, a player shall not remain in their team's foul lane for more than three consecutive seconds while that player's team is in control of a live ball in the frontcourt and the ...
Can you step on the field during a throw-in? ›
While taking the throw-in, the player must have part of each foot on the touchline or ground outside the touchline. They cannot step into the field to get closer to their teammates for an easier throw.
Can you run the baseline after a timeout? ›
After made baskets – When a basket is made, the opposing team may “run” the entire baseline when trying to inbound the ball. This includes returning from a time out. The ball may also be passed to a teammate who is positioned entirely out of bounds on the baseline and there is no violation.
Can a goalie cover the puck outside the crease? ›
The rules allow a goalie to cover the puck outside the crease if it is part of blocking a shot then freezing the puck immediately. Otherwise, a goalie who comes outside of the crease to freeze the puck will be assessed a 2 minute penalty for delay of game.
Why is the crease blue? ›
The crease is painted onto the ice and is shaded blue to stand out. This is the area given to the goalie to stop the opposing teams' shots and keep the puck out. This area is intended to be a safe zone for the goalie where they are protected.
What is the radius of the goal crease? ›
The goal crease areas shall be outlined by a two inch (2”) wide, red in color, semi-circle line. The radius of the semi-circle shall be six feet (6'), and measured from the back of the goal line.
Is stepping on the line backcourt violation? ›
This is a violation. Once a player establishes position in his frontcourt, he cannot move into his backcourt, nor may he pass the ball to a teammate positioned in the backcourt.”
What is the violation during the inbound pass? ›
When a player is inbounding the ball from a designated throw-in spot, he is not allowed to move his feet. An official explains how players can avoid violating such important basketball rules.
Can a player step over the line on throw-in? ›
To take the throw-in, the player must face the field of play and have part of each foot touching the ground when they release the ball. While their feet may touch the touchline, they're not allowed to overstep it.
What is the blood rule in the NBA? ›
If a player suffers a laceration or a wound where bleeding occurs or if blood is visible on a player or his uniform, the officials shall suspend the game at the earliest appropriate time and allow a maximum of 30 seconds for treatment.
“This is an example of a violation for a player striking the ball with a fist. The offensive player, Daniel Theis, strikes the ball with a closed fist in an attempt to direct it to his teammate. This is a violation, and possession would be awarded to the opposing team.
What is an illegal touch in basketball? ›
A throw-in which touches the floor, or any object on or outside the boundary line, or touches anything above the playing surface is a violation.
What was the Gretzky rule? ›
After the 1984–85 season , where Wayne Gretzky scored 73 goals, having scored 87 in 1983–84 , 71 in 1982–83 , and 92 in 1981–82 ,* the League, voting 17 teams to 3, to not have the teams play a man-down when coincidental minors were called. Edmonton (Gretzky's team), New Jersey, and Montreal voted against the change.
What is Rule 14D in the NHL? ›
NHL Rule 14D states that “[n]o playing Coach or playing Manager or goalkeeper shall be permitted to act as Captain or Alternate Captain.” The Canucks have thought of a solution though. Willie Mitchell will handle all of the captain's duties on ice—things like those little chats with the referee.
What is the 85% rule in NHL 23? ›
The 85% Rule With Extending Contracts
If a player wants an extension once his contract is set to expire, it's something to pay attention to. This player will sign an extension for 85% of his asking price, which definitely is helpful when it comes to the salary cap in this game.
Can a defenseman cover the puck in the crease? ›
Conversely, defensive players in the crease area are prohibited from covering or grabbing the puck, concealing it or taking it out of play, or the official can award a penalty shot for the attacking team.
Can you step in the crease after a goal? ›
Crease Violation—An offensive player cannot touch or enter the circle around the goal. If a player is shooting and steps in the crease, the goal will not count.
What does the crease mean in hockey? ›
The goalie crease is the area directly in front of the goal that is shaded a blue color and outlined with a red border. The goal crease is the main area that goalies play in during the game, to protect the goal; although they are not restricted to only playing in this area.
What is a crease in sports? ›
…of the goal is the crease, a semicircular area that corresponds to a circle with a 6-foot radius, demarcated by a red line. When the goalie is in the crease, no attacking player may enter unless the puck is there as well; if the goalie is not in the crease,…
What does crease mean in lacrosse? ›
In lacrosse, the crease is the circular area surrounding each net. Only the goaltender can possess the ball in this area, and defensive players can enter the crease as long as they are not in possession of the ball.
Players are definitely allowed to skate through the crease.
As long as the player does not make contact with the goaltender or impede him in his ability to make a save this is perfectly legal. As well, a player is allowed to go into the crease to pursue a puck that has not been covered up or frozen by a goaltender.
What is a crease violation in floor hockey? ›
Defensive players may enter the crease to stop a shot on goal; they may not however freeze the ball. If a defensive player freezes the ball, the result shall be a two minute delay of game penalty. If the defensive player freezes the ball in the crease, the result shall be a penalty shot.
Is it still icing If the puck goes through the crease? ›
Icing the puck is the action of a player shooting, batting, kicking, or deflecting the puck from their own half of the ice, as divided by the centre red line, down and across the goal line in the opposing team's defending zone. If the puck enters the net on such a play, then it is not icing.
What is the word meaning of crease? ›
: a line, mark, or ridge made by or as if by folding a pliable substance. : a specially marked area in various sports. especially : an area surrounding or in front of a goal (as in lacrosse or hockey)
What does make me crease mean? ›
If someone or something makes you crease up or creases you up, they make you laugh a lot.
What sports have a goal crease? ›
Ice hockey
The goaltender usually plays in or near the area in front of the net called the goal crease (often referred to simply as the crease or the net). Because of the power of shots, the goaltender wears specific equipment designed to protect the body from direct impact.
What is 3 goals in lacrosse called? ›
In lacrosse, like other sports with goal scoring, hat tricks occur when a player scores three goals in one game. Fans rarely throw hats onto the playing surface to acknowledge them due to their frequent occurrences in a game.
How big is a boys lacrosse crease? ›
An 18 ft. diameter circle is drawn around each goal and is known as the "crease." A rectangle, 35 yards by 40 yards surrounds each goal area and is known as the "goal area." An "X" is marked in the center of the field. There is a special substitution area on the sideline, next to the timers table.
Which player can enter into the crease? ›
The goal crease is a zone in front of the goal mouth where only goalies are permitted. If another player goes into the crease while carrying the ring, play is stopped, and the goalie receives the ring for a goalie ring.
How long can the goalie hold the ball in the crease? ›
If the goaltender stops a shot by the opposing team, or picks the ball up any other way, the goaltender has 4 seconds in the crease to pass the ball or run with the ball. If the goaltender fails to do so, the ball will be awarded to the opposing team. After those 4 seconds, the goaltender must leave the crease.
