As Hartlepool United gear up for their third season in the National League, here are some things they’ll have to look out for starting on August 3. Scroll down and click through the pages to see the new rules explained…
5. Handball (no free-kick)
In most instances, a player will not be penalised if the ball touches their hand/arm directly from their own head/body/foot or that of a nearby player. Photo: Frank Reid
6. Goal kicks & free-kicks inside the box
As with free-kicks inside the penalty area, the ball is in play as soon as a goal kick is taken and can be played or intercepted before leaving the penalty area. Photo: Frank Reid
7. Kick-off
The team that wins the toss is now able to choose to take the kick-off of which goal to attack towards. Previously, the team were only able to choose which goal to attack. Photo: Frank Reid
8. Penalty kicks (goalkeepers)
Goalkeepers must not touch the goalposts, crossbar or net and must have at least part of one foot on the goal line when the kick is taken. They are not permitted to stand behind the line. Photo: Frank Reid