A goal kick is taken but the ball bursts after traveling 20 yards after which the referee stops play. What decision should the referee make for the restart?

In the situation described, a goal kick is taken, and the ball bursts after traveling a certain distance. The proper decision in this case is to re-take the goal kick. This is because the goal kick was executed legally, but the bursting of the ball serves as an unforeseen circumstance, affecting the play.

When a kick-off, goal kick, or corner kick occurs, the ball must be in proper condition for play. If the ball becomes unplayable due to an external issue—like bursting—before it has been successfully put into play and touched by another player, the original action is not considered complete. Therefore, the referee is right to allow for a re-take, as the initial goal kick was not completed satisfactorily due to the ball’s condition.

Other options are not appropriate because a dropped ball would only be necessary if play was stopped for reasons not involving the ball's condition during a properly executed kick. An indirect free kick would not apply here since there was no infringement from the opposing team that would warrant such a restart. Similarly, there is no basis for a throw-in, as the scenario does not fit that situation. Thus, re-taking the goal kick is the correct decision to ensure the game is played fairly and according to