A Penalty Throw (also called a “5-meter”) is the most direct scoring opportunity in water polo. The referee awards it when a defender commits a major foul that prevents a probable goal.
Here is how it works and why it happens:
How the Throw is Taken
- The Location: The shooter stands on the 5-meter line (marked by yellow buoys) directly in front of the goal.
- The Setup: No other players can be within 2 meters of the shooter. All other players must stay behind the 5-meter line.
- The Execution: The shooter holds the ball above the water. Once the referee blows the whistle, the shooter must throw the ball immediately in one continuous motion. They cannot pump the ball or fake a shot.
- The Goalkeeper: The goalie must stay behind the goal line and cannot move forward until the ball leaves the shooter’s hand.
When does a Referee call a Penalty?
A referee awards a penalty throw if a defender commits a foul inside the 5-meter area to stop a “probable goal.” Common reasons include:
- Sinking the Player: A defender pulls down or pushes under an offensive player who has a clear path to the goal.
- Goalie Interference: A defender (other than the goalie) blocks a shot with two hands or punches the ball with a clenched fist.
- Pulling Down the Goal: A defender intentionally moves or sinks the goal frame to prevent a score.
- Illegal Entry: A player enters the game illegally and interferes with a scoring play.
Why It Matters
A penalty throw is almost a guaranteed goal for skilled teams. Because the shooter is close to the cage and the goalie cannot move forward to “cut down the angle,” the shooter has a massive advantage.
The Rule of Three: If a specific player causes a penalty throw, it counts as one of their three major fouls. If a player receives three major fouls, they are excluded for the remainder of the game.