The WSE Champions League Men’s Qualifying Round introduces a new tiebreaker system for matches ending in a draw, designed to handle scenarios where team standings might be impacted by tied results. This process adds an extra layer of competition and excitement to each game, ensuring that every match ends with a clear outcome. Here’s how it will work:
- Initial Direct Free Hit Series
At the end of any match that finishes with a tie, teams will proceed to a series of direct free hits. Each team will take an initial series of three direct free hits, with each attempt executed by a different player. Players’ shirt numbers must be provided in advance to the Assistant Referee. - Sudden-Death Series if Tie Persists
If the match remains tied after the initial series, teams will continue with successive rounds of one direct free hit each, in a sudden-death format. The same player from each team may execute these shots until a winner emerges. - Match Result and Points Allocation
This tiebreaker only determines a winner for classification purposes. The final score of the match will remain as a tie, and each team will be awarded one point, regardless of the shootout outcome. - Execution of Direct Free Hits
Direct free hits may be taken either as a direct shot on goal or by transporting the ball. If the player chooses to move with the ball, they are limited to five seconds to complete the attempt, which begins with the referee’s whistle. - Referee Oversight
The Main Referees are responsible for supervising the correct execution of each direct free hit, particularly regarding ball handling, to ensure adherence to the five-second limit.
This tiebreaker rule applies only after all other game rules for determining standings have been exhausted. With this added feature, fans can expect thrilling finishes as teams compete in this crucial Qualifying Round for a chance to advance in Europe’s top rink hockey tournament.
