What happens when the ball goes over the back-line without a goal?
I · Intermediate · How does play restart? · 11 of 21It depends on who played it. If an attacker did, the defence restarts up to 15 metres out. If a defender did by accident, or the goalkeeper deflected it, the attack restarts on the 23-metre line. If a defender put it over deliberately, the attack gets a penalty corner.
How it works
| Last played by | Restart |
|---|---|
| An attacker | Free hit to the defence, up to 15 metres from the back-line, in line with where it crossed |
| A defender by accident, or a goalkeeper's deflection | Free hit to the attack on the 23-metre line, in line with where it crossed |
| A defender, on purpose (not a goalkeeper's deflection) | Penalty corner |
The restart on the 23-metre line counts as being inside the 23-metre area, so the 5-metre rules for attacking free hits apply.
Tricky cases
What is a long corner?
A common name for the attacking restart on the 23-metre line after a defender plays the ball over the back-line by accident.
Can the goalkeeper save the ball over the back-line?
Yes. A goalkeeper's deflection over the back-line gives the attack a restart on the 23-metre line, not a penalty corner.
The defender's clearance hit a teammate and went out. Is that deliberate?
It depends on what the umpire judges. Only a deliberate act gives a penalty corner. The 2026 rulebook tells umpires not to hesitate when it is clear.
Why the rule exists
It stops defenders escaping pressure by knocking the ball out over their own line on purpose.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| FIH rules | As above | H7.4, 12.3 d |
From the rule book
FIH Rules of Hockey, Rules 7.4 and 12.3 d, and the Introduction ("Applying the Rules"), in force from 1 March 2026. Checked 13 October 2026. Official document: FIH Rules of Hockey (PDF).