Date:         Wed, 16 Dec 2009 12:49:12 -0500
Reply-To:     Discussion of Topics for Soccer Referees
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Sender:       Discussion of Topics for Soccer Referees
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From:         Tom Stagliano <[log in to unmask]>
Subject:      Hypothetical scenario and Referee Action
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On another web site, there is some considerable discussion of what happens
if a player "just leaves the game".

Basic scenario.

Men's amateur D-1 game, Sunday afternoon, three referee crew.

In the first half, Player A6 (outside midfielder) is cautioned.  

15 minutes into the second half, with team A having used only one of their 3
substitution opportunities, while Team A is on the attack, Player A6 leaves
the field, picks up his bag, heads to the parking lot, gets in his car and
leaves.

Assume the trailing AR is on the far side of the field from the bench area.

At the next stoppage of play, you are the CR and you are informed that
player A6 "is no longer with us today".   Team A wishes to have A14 enter
the game.

What do you do?

Please review Sections 3 and 12 of the USSF ATR before commenting.  

What if, instead of A6, the player in question was A1, the goal keeper?
Would anything change?  

Please base your answer on Only these facts of the game and your review of
the ATR.  

Thank you for your time and consideration.

              - Stag