SIXFL MATCH RULES
Match Rules
Version 1.0 — March 2026
These rules outline how SIXFL matches are played. They apply to all SIXFL competitions unless otherwise stated by the league.
Referee Decisions
Decisions of the referee regarding facts connected with play are final.
Match Duration
Matches are typically played between 30–40 minutes in duration. Competition formats may allow games to be played without a half-time interval or requirement to change ends.
Start of Play
The choice of ends is decided by the toss of a coin. The losing team takes the kick-off.
Kick-Off
A kick-off is used to start the match, restart play after a goal and start the second half. A goal may be scored directly from a kick-off or corner kick.
Ball In and Out of Play
The ball is out of play when it has wholly crossed the goal line or touchline, or when play has been stopped by the referee. The ball is in play at all other times, including rebounds from the goalpost or crossbar.
Scoring
A goal is scored when the whole of the ball passes over the goal line. The team scoring the greater number of goals wins the match.
Offside and Height Rules
There is no offside rule and no overhead height restriction.
Free Kicks
All free kicks are direct and are awarded to the opposing team for offences in accordance with the rules of play. Opponents must stand at least five yards from the ball until it is in play.
Penalty Area
A penalty kick may be awarded if a defender enters the penalty area or if the goalkeeper leaves the penalty area in violation of the rules. If an attacking player enters the penalty area, the referee may award possession to the goalkeeper.
Kick-Ins
Kick-ins replace throw-ins when the ball leaves the pitch. A goal cannot be scored directly from a kick-in or from a goalkeeper restart. A direct backpass to the goalkeeper is not permitted from a kick-in.
Goalkeeper Rules
Goalkeepers must restart play by throwing the ball underarm or overarm. Goalkeepers may save or stop the ball with their feet, but may not kick the ball out from their hands. If a goalkeeper kicks the ball from their hands, a free kick may be awarded to the opposing team.
Guest Players
Teams may use a maximum of two guest players per match. Guest players may play a maximum of three matches for the same team during a season. After this point, the player must be registered as a permanent player for that team. Guest players must be agreed with the opposing captain and referee before kick-off. Guest players may not participate in playoff or final matches unless registered with the team. Teams may not use guest players as substitutes during a match.
Discipline and Sin Bin Rule
Referees may use temporary suspensions (sin bins) for cautionable offences. A player shown a blue card is temporarily suspended from play. A second blue card in the same match results in permanent exclusion from the match. A red card results in immediate dismissal from the match. Serious disciplinary incidents may be reported to the relevant County FA.