A fourth official in football is someone who assists the referee in various duties or tasks. He or she may also be called upon to replace a match official. Fourth officials are also known as replacement referees, reserve referees, or RRs.
The term and role of the fourth official were introduced by Ken Aston in 1966. Aston was an administrator an English referee. Though it was introduced at a much earlier date, it was only in 1991 when it was recognized.
When it comes to where this official stays during a game, it is said that he or she usually has his or her own table that is located close to the touchline that cuts the technical areas of the two teams that are playing. Though a usual practice in matches, this position is not written or specified in any football rule book.
Responsibilities of the Fourth Official
Being an assistant and a reserve official, many would think that fourth officials do not have specific responsibilities. This is not the case because these officials actually have a good line-up of responsibilities to do every football game.Among the top responsibilities of the fourth official include administrative functions. These functions are not only done during the game but also before and after the game. Responsibilities include assessing the equipment used by the players as well as managing substitutions. On top of that, these officials are also responsible for sending out notifications on the time that will be added on during half breaks.
Furthermore, these officials are the contact persons that link outside agents like ball retrievers, security personnel, and stadium managers to the match officials. They are also the ones who maintain proper decorum along with the technical areas of each of the teams playing.
Lastly, fourth officials are given the responsibility to identify infringements or offences that are happening that are away from the referee’s line of sight. In addition, they also make sure that the referee does not make a major mistake in his or her calls including sending off and cautioning the wrong players.
With all of these responsibilities, it is never a question why these fourth officials are considered key members of the officiating team. Though considered a junior member, these officials are required to replace the referee if certain troubles arise. In high-level tournaments, the fourth officials are considered a designated referee.