MOF OFFICIAL RULES AND REGULATIONS 11-A-SIDE WEEKEND FOOTBALL LEAGUES
OFFICIAL RULES AND REGULATIONS
11-A-SIDE WEEKEND FOOTBALL LEAGUES
Edition 2019.1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOREWORD
| ABOUT MOF | ||
| SECTION ONE: LEAGUE OVERVIEW | ||
| 1 | LEAGUE FIXTURES OR SCHEDULING | |
| 2 | MATCH VENUES | |
| 3 | TEAM JERSEYS AND EQUIPMENT | |
| 4 | HEALTH AND SAFETY | |
| HAZE RESTRICTIONS | ||
| WEATHER RESTRICTIONS | ||
| FIGHTING, VIOLENCE OR ABUSE | ||
| 5 | PLAYER REGISTRATION AND ELIGIBILITY | |
| PLAYERS ON PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTS | ||
| MINIMUM AGE OF PLAYERS | ||
| 6 | LEAGUE FEES AND MATCH PAYMENT(S) | |
| REGISTRATION FEE AND LEAGUE SEASON DEPOSIT | ||
| PAYMENT METHODS | ||
| PAYMENT OPTIONS AND SCHEDULE | ||
| 7 | MATCH POSTPONEMENT(S) | |
| BLOCK OUT DATE(S) | ||
| POSTPONEMENT REQUEST(S) | ||
| COMPASSIONATE POSTPONEMENT | ||
| 8 | GAME DAY PHOTOGRAPHY | |
| 9 | AWARDS, PRIZES AND INCENTIVES | |
| 10 | CONTINUANCE TO THE NEW SEASON | |
| SECTION TWO: LAWS OF THE GAME | ||
| 1 | MATCH PLAY DETAILS | |
| 2 | SUBSTITUTION | |
| 4 | MATCH DELAY(S) / ABANDONMENT(S) | |
| GATE IS CLOSED AND WARDEN IS MISSING | ||
| REFEREE IS DELAYED / NO-SHOW | ||
| GAME ABANDONMENT | ||
| 3 | DISCIPLINARY | |
| YELLOW AND RED CARDS | ||
| FORMAL COMPLAINTS | ||
| 4 | LEAGUE TABLE AND POINTS ALLOCATION | |
| 5 | TEAM PROMOTION, RELEGATION AND ALLOCATION | |
FOREWORD
About MOF
Ministry of Football Pte Ltd (“MOF”) is a premier footballing company incorporated in Singapore in 2010 with the sole objective of offering sports services through the organizing and running of football games, competitions and physical sporting activities related to the Singapore football community and industry. MOF organizes large scale football leagues, cups and tournaments to over 100 active teams a year, games played chiefly in full sized football fields in the secondary schools across Singapore every weekend (Saturday and Sunday). These activities are organized primarily to provide the football loving community, of every nationality, race, and age or gender, a well-organized, hassle free, value-for- money experience. It is dedicated to provide a fair and competitive platform for participants to enjoy.
MOF also works with both primary and secondary schools and other educational institutions to provide sports enrichment guidance and coaching to kids and young adults. Over the years, MOF has evolved to be a field leader in the local football and sports education arena. MOF aims to build a dynamic social football community in Singapore both on and off the field. In addition, MOF strives to push the local social football scene to a level on par with international events.
Made to cater for the most enthusiastic and passionate football players, the MOF 11-A-Side Weekend Football League aims to provide a competitive yet friendly environment in an ever-increasingly popular social football scene in Singapore. With MOF’s extensive experience in organizing football-related events coupled with a strong team of experienced staff, MOF endeavours to provide you and your team with the best football league experience in Singapore. MOF hopes to establish a long lasting football relationship with you and appreciate all the support rendered.
SECTION ONE:
LEAGUE OVERVIEW
The MOF 11-a-side weekend league matches will be played on Saturdays (3 PM) or Sundays (11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM). Unless otherwise stated in the League Participation Contract, matches may be played on either artificial or natural grass fields. Team Manager(s) are not allowed to demand for a specific timing or location for their matches due to the limited number and highly competitive nature of booking affordable football pitches in Singapore. However, the preferred region and timing of each and every team is noted prior to the start of the season. MOF strives to allocate a football pitch meeting the team’s specific preferences for the team’s home games, provided they are available.
Each participating team is required to nominate 02 representatives as Team Managers. The Team Manager(s) must provide an image copy of their NRIC (front and back) prior to the season commencement. In addition, MOF requires the signatures of both Team Managers as confirmation to officially register the team into the league.
- LEAGUE FIXTURES OR SCHEDULING
The duration of one season is estimated in accordance with the match format of the league, with provision given for over-run as fixtures are highly dependent on (a) pitch availability and (b) weather (e.g. heavy rain with lightning alert) or environment (high PSI readings from haze) restrictions. Both these variables are beyond the control of MOF. Team Manager(s) will be informed via WhatsApp the timing and location of their next scheduled match. This will be done no later than 07 days before the scheduled game. Team Manager(s) are strongly encouraged to check the “Fixtures” section of the
MOF website in the event that they do not receive a WhatsApp broadcast 07 days before the stipulated match date. However, MOF has the right to amend the location and timing of any fixture without any justification(s) provided prior to the scheduled game.
- MATCH VENUES
As a social football league operator providing affordable social football matches to the community, MOF utilizes affordable and highly desired field venues every week. In general, all matches are held at fields provided by Sports Singapore. There may be occasions where privately owned fields or other miscellaneous venues may be hired. MOF does not own, manage or maintain any football pitches. Team Manager(s) must acknowledge that the availability and quality of fields allocated for their matches are not within MOF’s control. If fields are deemed of unplayable condition by Team Manager(s) on match day, they are to inform the officiating referee and call the MOF Hotline before kick-off.
| MOF Hotline (Saturday) | : | 8389 5707 |
| MOF Hotline (Sunday) | : | 98403782 |
Do note that the playability of the pitch will be determined by the referee ONLY and the referee’s decision is FINAL.
Team Managers shall be fully liable and responsible for the conduct of the team members at the various venues where games are played. In particularly, many games are held at secondary schools or other local educational institutions where smoking / bad language / offensive conduct are banned. In the event of any infringement of any laws or school rules, the Team Managers shall be fully liable and responsible for payment of any fines that may be levied, or compensating MOF for any fines which may be levied on MOF. The Team Managers recognize also that infringement any school rules or laws may result in the team being banned, or the field being taken back and made unavailable for game play.
- TEAM JERSEYS AND EQUIPMENT
MOF highly recommends that team(s) own 02 sets of different coloured jerseys before the season commences to avoid any clash in colours during the match. The Home and Away colours must be declared before the start of the season. Team Manager(s) must ensure that players are wearing the jersey instructed on their fixtures broadcast. Any decision to change the colour of the jersey worn during the game MUST be updated to MOF via WhatsApp 48 hours prior to the scheduled match. MOF is not liable if the match is delayed or become unplayable due to team(s) ignoring the instructions clearly given during the fixtures broadcast. The offending team(s) are to pay the full costs of the game fees in the event of these instances.
Team Manager(s) must ensure that their teams bring at least 02 proper size 5 match balls to the game. Failure to do so may result in a walkover if no ball is available for kick-off. In the event that BOTH teams fail to possess any proper match balls 30 minutes after kick-off, the match will be called off and rescheduled on a later date. BOTH teams are required to pay the full match fees for both the called off game and the rescheduled game. Please note that MOF is not liable for any loss and/or damage of teams’ equipment.
Should a ball be kicked out of bounds of the game venue, the person responsible for kicking the ball shall be responsible for retrieving it. In the event that the ball is kicked out of bounds and irretrievable because of lack of access or danger, team managers thereby accept that loss of balls are part and parcel of social football played in a dense, urban city such as Singapore.
- HEALTH AND SAFETY
Due to safety reasons, protective gear is compulsory. All players must wear long socks and shin-guards for all the matches. No rings, piercing, chains, bangles or watches are allowed. Players who do not comply will not be allowed on the field. Referees have the right to stop play and not allow the infringing player to continue in the game. Players bleeding are required to leave the field of play until the bleeding has stopped. Players are not allowed to wear blood stained clothing, as this poses potential health danger to other participants.
Such medical attention be required, immediately inform the referee, the MOF Hotline, and activate emergency services:
Non-Emergency Ambulance 1777
Ame 6247 7080
Blesswell 6273 0147
Econ 6382 8888
ER 6222 2995
Green Crescent 6788 8911
Heng Gref 6788 8911
Civic Ambulance 6333 3000
Medical Insurance is not provided. Team Manager(s) are strongly recommended to appoint a team official that is qualified to assume such duties, and to purchase relevant health insurance . Team Manager(s) also acknowledge that game play may result in injuries. It is the Team Manager(s) duty to ensure that all players in their team understand the risk of injury. MOF is indemnified from any and all risk involving team members.
HAZE RESTRICTIONS
MOF places the health of the teams’ players as top priority. Sports Singapore has decreed that all outdoor matches should cease when the PSI level reaches 200. However, as wind directions impact the level of haze and are highly unpredictable, MOF will take the PSI reading 02 hours prior to the scheduled game. In the event of a game cancellation, MOF will update Team Manager(s) 90 minutes before the scheduled match. However, if the team and the opposing team insists on continuing the game against MOF’s recommendation to cancel the game, Team Manager(s) are to update MOF accordingly. A referee will then be allocated for the MOF. MOF is not liable for any illnesses or injury that occur during that particular match. No broadcast of a cancelled game from MOF’s end implies that the match goes on as scheduled.
WEATHER RESTRICTIONS
Team Manager(s) acknowledge that league games may be affected due to bad weather conditions. MOF reserves the right to postpone or call off any match in these extreme situations. In the event of heavy rain before kick-off, Team Manager(s) are required to wait out up to 40 minutes after the scheduled game time before a decision can be made on the status of the match. ONLY the referee may decide if the game should go on or be called off and BOTH teams are required to be present at the field, or within the vicinity of the field (should there not be adequate shelter at the field) and within the referee’s sight, during the 40 mins waiting period up till the point of referee’s decision on whether the game is able to proceed.
Lightning conductors are available at all match venues. If the siren is sounded out or the beacon is lighted to indicate Category 1 status, play will be stopped. Play may only resume once weather status returns to Category 2. However, in the case of torrential downpour with no Category 1 status, it is up to the referee’s discretion to decide if the match play is to continue or be halted.
In the event that the scheduled match is called off mid-way through:
- If less than 20 minutes is played, Team Manager(s) are not charged for the game, scores are voided and the match will be rescheduled on a later date
- If 20 minutes – less than 60 minutes are played, Team Manager(s) are required to pay half of the game fees, scores are voided and match will be rescheduled on a later date
- If 60 minutes and above are played, Team Manager(s) are required to pay the full amount of the game fees, scores are considered as final and no further match will be rescheduled. The match stands as a full match.
FIGHTING, VIOLENCE OR ABUSE
MOF adopts a ZERO-TOLERANCE approach to fighting and any form of violence or abuse (both physical and verbal). Team Manager(s) are expected to cooperate and control their team members. Team Manager(s) shall be fully liable and responsible for the conduct of team members both on and off the playing field. In the event of any altercation, violence or abuse that may or may not result in injury, MOF reserves the right to release all identification details to the police and any other legal authorities governed by Singapore law in order to cooperate with any police investigation. Players or spectators found guilty may be banned from any further participation in MOF matches. Team Manager(s) may also be required to reimburse MOF for any settlements/reimbursements of any medical injuries caused to others by your team member(s). A fine and/or deduction of points may also be imposed as a stern warning to the offending team. Depending on the gravity of the incident, MOF reserves the right to expel the offending team(s) from the league. The team will not be allowed to re-join the league or any competitions (cups, tournaments etc.) organized by MOF until it can prove itself to have corrected its actions.
- TERMINATION/WITHDRAWAL/EXPULSION OF TEAMS
In the event that a team is withdraws or is terminated/expelled from MOF Leagues, the team is liable to pay the fees of the remaining games that have yet to be played at time of expulsion in addition to fees of the opponents that would have played in those games.
If the time of termination/withdrawal/expulsion occurs before the midway point of the season (decided by the number of games majority of the division has played), the results of the games played before that will be considered null and void. If the time of expulsion occurs at/after the midway point of the season, the results of the games that have been played will remain as they were and the remaining games will be considered as walkovers, where a 3-0 win will be awarded to the teams that would have played them in those remaining games.
- PLAYER REGISTRATION AND ELIGIBILITY
Team Manager(s) may register as many players as they wish. Full details (Name, last 3 digits and alphabet of NRIC Number and Contact Number) of all players must be submitted to MOF prior to the commencement of the season. However, at no time should any player represent more than one team in the league in the same division. Any player found to be in breach of this rule will be banned immediately and the match will be regarded a walkover in favour of the opposing team. During the season, players are able to transfer from one team to the next in the same division. It is the Team Manager(s) responsibility to inform MOF of this transfer.
Team Manager(s) shall undertake the responsibility of ensuring the eligibility of their players competing in the league. Please refer to the two points below.
PLAYERS ON PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTS
For ALL MOF Leagues
No professional players are allowed to participate in the league. By definition of professional players, it is understood as a player on a professional contract; for example S.League or Prime League players. Professional players with a professional contract from overseas leagues are also ineligible. Any professional players that have been released (e.g. their contracts have expired) within the last 06 months may not participate in the league. Any team caught doing so, will face disciplinary action and the game will be deemed a walk-over in favour of the opposing team. However, both teams are liable to pay the cost of the game for their own team.
For MOF Leisure and Minor Leagues
No FAS National Football League players are allowed to participate in the MOF Leisure and Minor Leagues. Any player caught fielding a player representing any FAS National Football League team caught doing so, will face disciplinary action and the game will be deemed a walk-over in favour of the opposing team. However, both teams are liable to pay the cost of the game for their own team.
ENFORCEMENT AGAINST FIELDING OF PLAYERS ON PROFESSIONAL CONTRACT
Teams caught fielding players on Prime League/S-League contract or have been released (e.g. their contracts have expired) within the last 06 months will suffer an immediate 7 point deduction. Offending team(s) caught repeating this offence will be imposed a further fine of $100 per professional player per game.
LODGING OF COMPLAINT OF FIELDING OF PLAYERS ON PROFESSIONAL CONTRACT
Teams wishing to lodge a complaint of alleged illegal players in their opponent’s team should capture clear images of those players in that game.
Team Managers understand that the photography MOF provides is complimentary and neither photographer nor an MOF I/C will be there throughout the entire duration of the game to enforce against illegal players. The main purpose of MOF’s photography is to accentuate the thrill and experience of Social Football.
MINIMUM AGE OF PLAYERS
Minimum age of all players in the team(s) is 16 years old by the time the season commences. Teams that wish to field player(s) under the age of 16 may do so under the following conditions:
- Team Manager(s) need to furnish a written letter that indicates the consent of the parent or guardian of the underage player
- The parent or guardian of the underage player acknowledge that MOF is not liable for any injuries or harm caused during the player’s participation in the league
- LEAGUE FEES AND MATCH PAYMENT(S)
It is the personal responsibility of Team Manager(s) to collect match fees from team members and/or sponsor(s). Kindly refer to your League Participation Contract for the fee payable per game. MOF reserves the right to change the fee amounts whenever necessary. All payment(s) to MOF should be made to MOF’s designated bank account.
| Bank | : | DBS Current |
| Account Name | : | MINISTRY OF FOOTBALL PTE LTD |
| Account Number | : | 010-903635-0 |
Team Manager(s) are required to settle all game fees on a timely manner. Kindly refer to <Payment Options and Schedule>. Team Manager(s) who have difficulties in making payment on time are required to contact MOF at our Admin/Finance Hotline: 8576 9948. Late payment of game fees may result in a charge of $30 per late game payment and dis-entitle teams to prize money, medals and trophies, with such late payment charges still owing and payable.
Team Manager(s) fully understand and accept that confirming their team’s participation in the league confirms that the team will be paying for 01 season of participation. By definition, payment for 01 season of participation entails full payment for the entire season and does not mean payment for games played to date. Avoidance of doubt: for example, IF the full payment were to be of an amount SGD1,820 for 14 games; this example of SGD1,820 is fully payable regardless the number of games played, be it 01 or 13 games.
MOF expects competent debt management from its participating team(s). Failure to submit timely payment for a total of 03 matches in one season will result in legal actions taken against the Team Manager(s). Enforcement will be executed through the Small Claims Tribunal State Courts of Singapore. Defaulting payment will also result in the expulsion of the team from the league. In the event of termination, expulsion or withdrawal of the team’s participation, the offending team is liable to pay for both the remaining games of the team participation as well as the fees which MOF would have incurred from the opposing team (i.e. twice the total amount of the team’s remaining game fees upon termination).
In the event that MOF has to initiate legal action (for example, in the Small Claims Tribunal or other courts of Singapore), an administrative fee of 20% of the outstanding amount (or $200, whichever is higher) owed to MOF must be paid additionally to MOF and will be included in MOF’s claim.
In the event that MOF has to enlist debt collection companies to collect unpaid debt, a further 25% of the amount owed to MOF must be paid additionally to MOF and will be included in the sum to be collected by the debt collection company.
REGISTRATION FEE AND LEAGUE SEASON DEPOSIT
For teams who are registering with MOF for the first time, there will be a non-refundable and non-transferrable one-time $50 registration fee to be charged. In addition, all teams are required to pay a deposit of 02 game fees upfront before the start of the season. This deposit is to be utilized for the last 02 games of the season. Late or non-payment of the 02 game deposit will automatically dis-entitle teams to prize money, medals and trophies, with such late payment charges still owing and payable.
PAYMENT METHODS
Teams may pay their match fees in one of two ways:
- Internet Bank Transfer (iBanking)
This is the PREFERRED mode of payment. No screenshot of payment confirmation is required as proof of payment. However, please include the team name under the Payee name.
- Funds Transfer/Deposit through Cash Deposit Machine
All payment made through the Cash Deposit Machine (transfer/cash deposit) requires a payment confirmation. Please send the image of receipt (Full image and not partial view) via WhatsApp. Please do not provide just the transaction number as this is not reflected in MOF banking transaction history.
PAYMENT OPTIONS AND SCHEDULE
Teams are given the option to pay the match fees in one of two ways:
- Full Season Payment
Prior to the start of the season, teams that choose to pay the full season match fees are rewarded with a $5 discount per game. For example, a team in a division of 12 teams (equating to 22 games for the whole season), will enjoy a discount of $110 for the entire season fees. Please note that this does not include fees for matches rescheduled due to weather restrictions and/or fines imposed to the team.
- Payment After Every Game
Team Manager(s) are required to pay the full match fees by 2359 hours on the day of the team’s scheduled game. Please do NOT make payment to any match official on the field. All payment of match fees should be paid directly to MOF Corporate Account as stipulated in Section ONE Point 3 <League Fees and Match Payment>.
- MATCH POSTPONEMENT(S)
All Major, Minor, Leisure (weekly) teams are allowed TWO postponements per season without any consequence (Regular postponement 9 day window, and emergency postponement 5 day window). NO Postponements are permitted for all Leisure 2T Leagues.
Any further Postponements will be paid postponement (one game fee). Absence Cancellation will result in a walkover. The Team who postponed the match will be liable to pay their own and that of their opponents’ costs for that match. Postponement request submission MUST reach MOF no later than 9 days from the date of desired postponement, and all postponements must be made through our MOF Ecosystem website www.ministryoffootball.com.sg. Postponements cannot be exercised for the last two remaining games of the season. Note that postponement request(s) cannot be exercised for the last 02 remaining games of the season.
BLOCK OUT DATE(S)
In order to provide an enjoyable and hassle-free football experience, teams are allocated block out date(s) for major festivities that fall on a Friday, Saturday, Sunday or Monday. Only these Public Holidays if resulting in Long Weekends will be blocked off: New Year’s Day, Lunar New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, Deepavali, Christmas Day. Teams that are predominantly Muslims (70% practising Muslims) will not have to play during the Ramadan fasting month (profiles must be updated through the Manager Login). MOF reserves the right to deny any block out request(s) if it affects/impairs the league schedule. For example, teams that are made up of (a) majority Chinese players are allowed to block out for Chinese New Year; (b) majority Indian players are allowed to block out for Deepavali; and (c) majority Malay/Muslim players are allowed to block out for Hari Raya. Teams are allowed to block out no more than 02 dates per season.
REGULAR POSTPONEMENT REQUEST(S)
All postponement request(s) are to be made no later than 9 days before the date of the scheduled fixture, that is 1700 Hours the Thursday (for Saturday Leagues) or Friday (for Sunday Leagues). This facilitates smoother flow of league scheduling, avoids any disruption to the season’s fixtures and reduces any inconvenience to other teams in the respective division.
EMERGENCY POSTPONEMENT REQUEST(S)
Each team is allocated 1 emergency postponement per season, in the event that it is past the 8 day mark to utilize the regular postponement. All requests for emergency postponements are required to be made no later than 5 days before the date of the scheduled fixture, that is 1700 hours the Tuesday (for Saturday Leagues) or Wednesday (for Sunday Leagues).
LATE POSTPONEMENT REQUEST(S)
All postponement requests made at least 9 days before the match schedule (provided this is the 01 postponement request for the season) will not be charged. Should teams request for a postponement lesser than the 9-day grace period, having also utilized the Emergency Postponement, the team will have to bear the following:
- For last minute postponement requests (less than 72 hours to the scheduled match), the team will be charged the full game costs of both teams. The match will then be awarded as a walkover in favour of the opposing team and no match will be rescheduled
- For postponement requests made between 72 hours and less than 9 days, the teams will be charged the full game cost for their team only. The match will then be rescheduled to another date.
COMPASSIONATE POSTPONEMENT REQUEST(S)
There may be instances where an unfortunate death or unforeseen life threatening injury result in teams not being able to field enough players for a match and this incident occurs less than 72 hours before the scheduled game. In this instant, Team Manager(s) are required to submit a valid death certificate or medical report within 48 hours after the scheduled game. Upon receipt of the valid document, MOF will charge the team the full game cost for the team only and reschedule the match to another date. If no valid documents are received, the team will then bear the full game costs of both teams and the match will then be awarded as a walkover in favour of the opposing team. The match will not be rescheduled.
- GAME DAY PHOTOGRAPHY
As part of MOF’s services to provide an enjoyable and memorable football experience, external photographers are assigned to capture each and every league game. They are external contractors and are not official MOF staff. Any league related queries should be addressed to the respective MOF Hotline accordingly.
| MOF Hotline (Saturday) | : | 8389 5707 |
| MOF Hotline (Sunday) | : | 9840 3782 |
These photographers are required to cover at least 2 games per match slot for the day. Photographers are instructed to spend a considerable amount of time at each match with ample time allocated to commute to their next scheduled location. There may be instances where photographers might not show up at your match as (a) a delayed game from a prior assignment results in the photographer not being able to reach the next assignment on time; (b) inclement weather does not allow the photographer to use his/her equipment or (c) last minute emergencies that were informed to MOF too late that no replacement photographer could be assigned. For instances where photographers do not show up, Team Manager(s) are required to pay for the full amount of their match fees.
- AWARDS, PRIZES AND INCENTIVES
Kindly refer to your League Participation Contract for details of the prize money, trophies and/or medals offered to the league. MOF reserves the right to amend at its full discretion the prizes awarded at any time. In particular, MOF will reduce the prizes in proportion to (a) the non-collectability of fees from other team(s) in the division, (b) where a division has team(s) dropping out, or (c) the termination of team(s) in the division before the season ends. These instances will result in revenue lost by MOF. Every effort will be made by MOF to ensure that all fees are collected and all teams complete the entire season.
The prize money, trophies and/or medals offered will be awarded to winning teams no later than 06 months after the season ends. MOF has the right to delay the delivery of prizes as it pursues the collection of all late fees and non-payment from team(s).
- CONTINUANCE TO THE NEW SEASON
MOF will identify a date of response of no less than 30 days before the last fixture game of the season to the Team Manager(s) for purpose of terminating this contract nearing the end of the season. Should there be no receipt of such response in writing to MOF 14 days before the last fixture game of the season, this contract shall be deemed valid and that the participation of the team into the next season will be confirmed and bound by the same terms.
SECTION TWO:
LAWS OF THE GAME
MOF follows the most updated official FIFA ruling for all rules and regulations of matches wherever possible. For any situations that are not covered in this document, MOF will seek to apply existing FIFA rules to that instant. Team Manager(s) who require further clarity on such instances may send in queries to info@ministryoffootball.com.sg or WhatsApp the MOF Hotline.
| MOF Hotline (Saturday) | : | 8389 5707 |
| MOF Hotline (Sunday) | : | 9840 3782 |
- MATCH PLAY DETAILS
Each match shall be played in two halves of 40 minutes with a 10-minute break in between. A match is played by 02 teams, each consisting of not more than 11 players, 01 of whom is the goalkeeper. A match may not start if either team consists of fewer than 07 players. If a team is unable to field 07 players within 15 minutes of the stipulated kick-off time, it shall be considered a walkover in favour of the opposing team who is required to be present at the field with at least 07 players ready to kick off the game. The offending team will bear the full match fees for both teams. Player sharing is not permitted and Team Manager(s) are not allowed to ‘loan’ or ‘borrow’ players to/from the opposing team.
It is the responsibility of the Team Managers to make sure that the team turns up punctually and on time for league matches at least 15 minutes before the kick-off time. If a team is not ready in full-gear on the pitch after 20 minutes of the stipulated time, a walkover will be awarded in favour of the opposing team. The offending team will bear the full match fees for both teams.
Should BOTH teams not be present at the field with at least 07 players ready to kick off the game within 15 minutes of the stipulated kick-off time, the game will be considered a 0-0 draw where BOTH teams will be required to bear the costs for their sides of the game.
- SUBSTITUTION
MOF applies the unlimited rolling substitution rule. This means that there can be a continuous replacement of one player (including goalkeeper) by another throughout the game, as long as each side has only 11 players on the field at once. Also, return substitutions are permitted. Hence, a player substituted out may return back to the field. Note that any of the other players may change places with the goalkeeper as long as the referee is informed and the change is made during a stoppage in the match.
To replace a player with a substitute, the following conditions must be observed:
∙ The referee must be informed before any proposed substitution is made
- The substitute only enters the field of play after the player being replaced has left and after receiving a signal from the referee
- All substitutions must be made at the halfway line and during a stoppage in the match
- The substitution is completed when a substitute enters the field of play
In the event of any infringement of the conditions stated above, the match referee has the right to caution the player(s) concerned and may restart the match with an indirect free kick, to be taken by the player of the opposing team.
- MATCH DELAY(S) / ABANDONMENT(S)
There may be instances where matches are delayed as the warden or referee has yet to arrive to the match venue. MOF appreciates the understanding, patience and cooperation of all Team Manager(s) for these untimely delays. As there are no MOF representatives available at your game venue, please note the following protocols if the warden or referee is not found at the venue premises:
GATE IS CLOSED AND WARDEN IS MISSING
If the school gate is closed and the warden cannot be found 20 minutes before the kick-off time, please contact either one of the MOF Hotline numbers IMMEDIATELY.
| MOF Hotline (Saturday) | : | 8389 5707 |
| MOF Hotline (Sunday) | : | 9840 3782 |
Do provide MOF the time needed to contact the relevant sports centres to get the respective warden / venue official to open the gate. Calling the hotline every minute after being informed of the warden’s absence will hinder the required steps taken to contact the relevant sports centres accordingly.
REFEREE IS DELAYED / NO-SHOW
If the referee is still not at the premises 05 minutes after the kick-off time, please contact either one of the MOF Hotline numbers IMMEDIATELY.
| MOF Hotline (Saturday) | : | 8389 5707 |
| MOF Hotline (Sunday) | : | 9840 3782 |
Do provide MOF the time needed to contact the referee. Team Manager(s) need to understand that referees may be delayed due to (a) the prior game he was officiating has overrun or (b) bad weather conditions has delayed his travelling time from one venue to the next.
In the event that the referee is unable to reach the match venue 15 minutes after the kick-off time, the MOF standby referee will be deployed to your scheduled match. MOF expects Team Manager(s) to understand that the standby referee needs time to travel to your venue.
GAME ABANDONMENT
Match referees are given the authority to call off or abandon a game if he finds that the match has reached a state where it might escalate to a point that may be uncontrollable even after warning the offending players or Team Manager(s), or if the referee feels his or others safety is at risk. MOF reiterates again that match referees are also amateur participants who do not earn sufficient to risk injury or be subjected to verbal abuse by the teams in such participation. In such instances, both team managers are liable to pay for the full game fees. The scores will remain as is and no match will be rescheduled no matter the duration of game played.
However, in the event that the game is abandoned because one of the teams walked out or refused to play the game, the match is then considered a walkover in favour of the opposing team. The offending team will then bear the full costs of the game for both teams.
- DISCIPLINARY
Verbal or physical assault or abuse against any MOF employee(s) or match official(s) is not acceptable under any circumstance and will not be tolerated. Team(s) found guilty of this offence may be expelled from the league and/or reported to the relevant police authorities. A fine and/or deduction of points may also be imposed as a stern warning to the offending team(s).
Team Manager(s) acknowledge that they are participating in non-professional social football leagues, providing affordable football games to football teams. They are not to engage in reckless or uncouth behaviour on and off the field, in particularly towards the referee and opposing teams. Consistent referee feedback has been received that they are unwilling to make difficult game-calls if the teams are too aggressive – referees are also amateur participants in our social football leagues, and do not earn sufficient to risk injury by the teams in such participation.
YELLOW AND RED CARDS
The match referee has the authority to issue both yellow and red card(s) to team player(s) according to the nature of the offence committed from the moment the referee enters the field of play and until he leaves the field of play after the final whistle. The referee’s decision is FINAL. No appeal from Team Manager(s) will be entertained. A red carded player must exit the game immediately and cannot be substituted.
In the event of a direct red card, the player(s) will be suspended for the next THREE league games. Any player(s) receiving 02 yellow cards in 01 single game will be suspended for the next ONE league game.
It is the responsibility of the Team Manager(s) to ensure that these player(s) profiles are already updated on the online Manager Login system, allowing MOF to mark them as such. Any team(s) caught fielding a suspended player(s) will automatically lose the match and the match is deemed a walkover in favour of the opposing team.
The yellow card is issued to communicate that a player, substitute or substituted player has been cautioned. A player is shown the yellow card if he commits any of the following seven offences:
- Unsporting behaviour
- Dissent by word or action
- Persistent infringement of the Laws of the Game
- Delaying the restart of play
- Failure to respect the required distance when play is restarted with a corner kick, free kick or throw-in
- Entering or re-entering the field of play without the referee’s permission
- Deliberately leaving the field of play without the referee’s permission
The red card is issued to communicate that a player, substitute or substituted player has been sent off. A player is shown the red card and is sent off if he commits any of the following seven offences:
- Serious foul play
- Violent conduct
- Spitting at an opponent or any other person
- Denying the opposing team a goal or an obvious goal scoring opportunity by deliberately handling the ball (this does not apply to a goalkeeper within his own penalty area)
- Denying an obvious goal scoring opportunity to an opponent moving towards the player’s goal by an offence punishable by a free kick or a penalty kick
- Using offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures
- Receiving a second caution or yellow card in the same match
ENFORCEMENT AGAINST RED CARDED PLAYERS
Referees will be instructed to obtain the name of the red-carded player should the player not have a jersey number, either from the player himself or the team manager. Should the details not be given by both parties, MOF will step in and seek to obtain the red-carded player’s details. Should the details of the red-carded player still not be provided, the team will incur an automatic 3 point deduction. If details of the red-carded player turn out to be false, the team will incur an automatic 6 point deduction.
This point deduction will not affect the scoreline of that game, and will only be deducted from the team’s overall points tally.
APPEAL PROCEDURE FOR RED-CARDED PLAYERS
To appeal against red cards awarded to players or reduction of ban that resulted from the red card, $50 payment will be required for each appeal. Appeals are to be submitted with formally with a write-up recounting the incident which resulted in the sending-off, with video footage (if captured).
The $50 payment is to ensure that the appeal process is in line with other enforcement procedures such as the enforcement against fielding of ineligible players such as red-carded/NFL/Prime League/S-League players in our respective leagues (where applicable) and to ensure that teams are committed to the appeal, given that views on red cards are more subjective in comparison to other appeals such as enforcement against fielding of ineligible players as mentioned above.
The appeal will be reviewed by MOF as well as the referee for that game and also a senior referee. Both referees must come to an unanimous decision pertaining to the appeal, in which case the $50 payment will be refunded to the appealing team. Should one of the referees have different verdicts on the appeal, the $50 payment will be forfeited.
FORMAL COMPLAINT(S)
Team manager(s) and / or match official(s) may submit a formal complaint(s) following serious incidents (such as violent conduct, fielding of ineligible player, referee taunting, inappropriate behaviour etc.). These report(s) are to be sent via email to info@ministryoffootball.com.sg within 24 hours following the match with full details of the incidence(s). Upon receiving the formal complaint(s), MOF will issue via email an incident report template to all parties involved (i.e. the respective team manager(s) and referee involved in the match).
Individuals involved are to fill the report fully and return it to MOF via email within 24 hours of delivery. The reports received will be kept in the strictest of confidence and are used to assess the differing viewpoints of the incident(s) in an objective and unbiased manner. The outcome of the decision will be sent via email after a full and thorough investigation by MOF. The verdict delivered is FINAL and judgment is based upon the gravity of the incidences. However, team manager(s) may submit an appeal within a 14 day grace period once the final verdict has been delivered.
Teams are hereby strictly warned that inappropriate behaviours like these are absolutely not condoned and if the need arises, a police report can be made. The offender(s), be individuals or the team, can be banned from taking any further participation in MOF leagues and other competitions. A fine and/or deduction of points may also be imposed as a stern warning to the offending team(s).
- LEAGUE TABLE AND POINTS ALLOCATION
A team is awarded 03 points for a win, 01 point for a draw and 00 points for a loss. In the event of a walkover, the team in favour will be awarded a score of 3-0 and awarded 03 points. A 3-legged format (each team plays each other in the division thrice) will be applied to ALL Minor League Divisions and selected Major League Divisions (will be advised by League Managers). Home and Away format (each team plays each other in the division twice) will be applied for other Divisions (Leisure/Major) unless stated otherwise.
Teams are ranked in their league table according to their total points received. MOF reserves the right to deduct points from team(s) for any offences made, as stated in this document. In the event where 02 or more teams are tied with the same points, teams will be ranked by goal difference. Teams with the higher goal difference will be ranked higher. In the event where 02 or more teams are tied with the same number of points and goal difference, their ranking will be determined by the number of goals scored per team. Teams scoring more goals will be ranked higher. In the event where 02 or more teams are tied with the same number of points, goal difference and number of goals scored, teams will be ranked by their head-to-head record (i.e. the team that scored more goals against the other is the winner). If the records are even, then a re-match may be scheduled or the ranking may be determined through a coin-toss. Team Manager(s) involved will be requested to come to an agreeable decision.
- TEAM PROMOTION, RELEGATION AND REALLOCATION
In order to ensure a level playing field among teams in each division, Team Manager(s) that decide to continue with MOF for the new season acknowledge that there will be a reallocation of divisions for the new season. In general, teams who finish in the top three positions of their respective division will earn automatic promotion to a higher division (may be more than 01 division higher). Teams who finish in the bottom three positions of their respective division will be demoted to a lower division. Promotion and relegation of teams is also dependent on the retention of existing teams and the acquisition of NEW teams.
Allocation of teams into the different divisions is at the sole discretion of MOF. Appeals and requests to move divisions will not be entertained. Reallocation of teams will come into play should there be more than 3 teams exiting a division, after which MOF will assess and evaluate which teams will be allocated to a higher OR lower division. This decision is highly dependent on the team’s final league standings in the most immediate past season.
For new teams signing up to the MOF league, allocation of divisions are based on unbiased evaluation and assessment. Factors that will be taken into consideration during the allocation are:
- Team(s) history in other amateur leagues prior to joining
- Results of friendly games organised by MOF prior to the season commencement
*All rules and regulations are subject to change and may be done so by the management at any point in time to better improve the MOF league.