What is the standard procedure if a game is played without the necessary boundary lines?

In soccer, it is essential for the playing field to meet specific standards, including the presence of clear boundary lines. If a game is played without these necessary boundary lines, it can lead to confusion regarding out-of-bounds calls and can affect the overall flow of the game. Therefore, when a referee identifies that the essential boundary lines are missing, the correct procedure is to stop the game.

Stopping the game allows the referee to address the issue appropriately and ensure player safety and fair play. After pausing the match, the referee needs to file a report detailing the incident, as it is crucial for accountability and for any follow-up actions from the governing body or league officials. This report serves to document the conditions under which the game was played, and decisions that were made in light of the rules governing field specifications. By stopping the game and filing a report, the integrity of the match and adherence to the rules of the sport are upheld.