Can defenders block a close free shot?
Restarts and decisions · Rule 10.37.3
For a free shot awarded within two metres of goal, defenders may block after release with stationary hands or paddle before the ball has travelled one metre. Moving towards the thrower or blocking before release can lead to a goal penalty shot.
How it works
For a free shot awarded within two metres of goal, defenders may block after release with stationary hands or paddle before the ball has travelled one metre. Moving towards the thrower or blocking before release can lead to a goal penalty shot. This is a narrow exception to the normal one-metre restart protection.
In a game
A goalkeeper holds a paddle still and blocks a released free shot close to goal.
Remember
This is a narrow exception to the normal one-metre restart protection.