Football For Life

Football For Life 5-A-Side League Rules

1. General Rules

  • Matches will be 5-a-side, including goalkeepers.
  • Games can be played 6-a-side if both teams agree.
  • Games will be played with rolling substitutions.
  • Matches will last 30 minutes
  • Standard FA 5-a-side rules apply unless otherwise stated.

2. Playing Area & Restrictions

  • Players are allowed to enter the ‘D’ (goalkeeper’s area).
  • No shots are allowed from within the ‘D’—goals must be scored from outside.
  • If an attacker scores in the ‘D’, the goal is disallowed, and play restarts with the goalkeeper.
  • Goalkeepers cannot leave the ‘D’ under any circumstances.
  • Overhead height is allowed—there is no height restriction on passes or clearances.

3. Goalkeeper Rules

  • Goalkeepers can throw or kick the ball to distribute it.
  • Goalkeepers must release the ball within 6 seconds.
  • If a goalkeeper leaves the ‘D’, a penalty will be awarded to the opposition.

4. Match Conduct & Fouls

  • No slide tackles are permitted.
  • No aggressive play or dissent—any abuse toward players, referees, or staff will result in disciplinary action.
  • Free-kicks are indirect in all instances. 

5. Use of Ringers & Fair Play Adjustments

  • Teams must declare players before the match.
  • If a team uses an unregistered “ringer” (an external player not in the squad), the opposing team may receive a goal advantage. The number of additional goals will be at the discretion of league organisers.
  • Ringers should only be used if a team is struggling to field enough players.

6. Rule Adjustments & Refinements

  • The first evening (taster session) will allow for trial adjustments to refine the league rules.
  • If necessary, rules may be amended to improve fairness and competition before the official season starts.

7. Discipline & Sportsmanship

  • Players receiving a yellow card will serve a 2-minute sin-bin.
  • Red card offenses result in an immediate sending-off, with a possible ban for the following match.
  • Persistent foul play or unsporting behaviour will be reviewed by the league committee.
  • Referee’s decisions are final – Excessive abuse will not tolerated, players and spectators may be asked to leave the playing area if this behaviour is observed.