KEY FACTORS

A five-a-side match consists of three periods of 10 minutes each with an interval of three minutes between the periods. Some of the key differences from current field hockey are in terms of the ways goals are scored and penalties imposed. Unlike traditional hockey, goals in 5s don’t have to be scored from inside the circle. A goal is awarded when the ball crosses the line from anywhere on the court. In addition, the ball is moved using a push, scoop or flick and no hitting is allowed as it is being played at an indoor arena. In terms of fouls, only free hits and challenges are awarded for respective offences by an attacker or defender. A Challenge is similar to the way shootouts are conducted in modern hockey. Free hits and fouls follow the same rules as modern hockey as well.