What happens after a goal is scored in hockey?
I · Intermediate · How is a goal scored? · 1 of 21The clock stops, and play restarts with a centre pass by the team that conceded. In FIH tournaments the clock stays stopped for 40 seconds after a goal from open play or a penalty corner. Goals after a video referral or a penalty stroke restart as soon as possible.
How it works
- The umpire whistles and points both arms towards the centre to signal the goal.
- Time and play stop, and restart when the teams are ready.
- The team that conceded takes the centre pass from the middle of the field.
- At the centre pass every other player must be in their own half until the ball is played. The ball can go in any direction.
- Outside tournaments that set the stoppage, the teams may agree not to stop the clock after a goal.
Tricky cases
Can a team take the centre pass quickly to catch the other side out?
Not before the umpire restarts play. The restart comes when the teams are ready, or after the 40 seconds in FIH tournaments.
Can the centre pass go backwards?
Yes. It can be played in any direction.
Why the rule exists
Stopping the clock means time spent celebrating and resetting is not taken from the match. The fixed 40 seconds in tournaments keeps the stoppage the same length every time.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| FIH rules | Time stops after a goal; teams may agree otherwise | H8.2, 5.1 |
| FIH tournaments | 40-second stoppage, except after a video referral or a penalty stroke | TR App 1 (2) |
From the rule book
FIH Rules of Hockey, Rules 6.3, 6.4 and 8.2, in force from 1 March 2026; FIH Outdoor Tournament Regulations, Appendix 1, June 2026. Checked 13 October 2026. Official documents: FIH Rules of Hockey (PDF); FIH Outdoor Tournament Regulations (PDF).