Back pass

A back pass, is a pass, usually from a defender, back to the goal keeper. A goalkeeper is not allowed to handle a back pass, and usually clears the ball with a long kick. The back pass rule was changed in 1992 to stop time wasting, as before the rule change, goalkeepers could pick up a back pass.

Example: Martin Skrtel went from hero to villain in the course of an exciting match at Anfield, heading Liverpool in front before his loose back pass set up the goal for Carlos Tevez.