73 - ADVANTAGE

73.1. The referees can allow play to continue when the team in possession is benefited by play continuing as a result of an infringement by an opponent, if neither referee has blown the whistle. The referee should recognise the illegal-play by signaling play-on. Signals 13 and 14 apply. Play on/Advantage and Free Throw.

Advantage should be a positive decision to help a team being fouled, not an excuse to a avoid making a decision to call a foul.

A direct shot at goal is still permitted as no foul has been called.
Referees must not play/signal advantage if a whistle has been blow for that same foul.
Wherever possible, call “Play-On” to the players so they do not need to stop and look around.

All fouls should be immediately given by the referee unless doing so would disadvantage the team who has been fouled. In which case, the referee may signal and call play on to see if advantage develops.
Any further sanctions such as a green, yellow or red card can be given at the next break in play.

When playing advantage- let the next pass or shot go to completion, but if there is no clear advantage, the original infringement should be called and the free shot taken at the position indicated by the referee. If appropriate- inform the players of “no advantage” and return to your signal.

When playing advantage, all referees are asked to use the appropriate signal and call “Play On” loudly so all players know advantage is being played.

If the players stop because they were expecting the whistle, both signal and call “Play On” again to give the opportunity to use the advantage, or blow the whistle and give the original sanction.

73.2. The referee can penalise any player who causes an infringement for which advantage is played at the next break in play with a green, yellow or red card.