text: when is a free kick direct vs. in-direct?  are there rules, or does the referee just decide himself?   direct free kicks are usually for more serious infringements of the law, like those in law 12.   a goal can be scored from a direct free kick and if an offence that attracts a direct free kick in the opponent's penalty area, a penalty will be awarded to the attacking team.  indirect free kicks are usually for minor infringements, like obstruction, dangerous play and covers the range of infringements committed by goal-keepers and of course, for offsides.  a goal cannot be scored form an indirect free kick, unless touched by another player.  the referee wil raise his arm to indicate an indirect free kick.