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History of Pitch Markings
The markings
on a modern football pitch are one of the most familiar images of the
modern era, as instantly recognisable as the twin arches of McDonald's or
the curve of a Coke bottle.
The markings evolved in Britain between 1863 and 1902.
1863 Pitch Markings
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When the English Football Association formed, pitch markings were not
specified. Instead, flags marked the corners. The pitch could measure up
to 200 yards long (180 metres) and up to 100 yards wide (90 metres). The
goalposts were set 8 yards apart (7.32 metres), a measurement which has
remained the same ever since.
1891 Pitch Markings
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The revised rules required goal lines and touch lines to be marked, plus a
centre circle, the goalkeepers' areas, and a 12 yard line from the goal. A
penalty kick could be taken from anywhere along that 12 yard line. An
optional 18 yard line across the full width of the pitch was also
introduced, to denote the penalty area. The penalty kick was an idea
suggested by the Irish Football Association in 1890. Little did the Irish
know then what agonies and ecstasies they were to unleash upon the
sporting public!
1902 Pitch Markings
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The modern pitch markings finally came into being in 1902, with an added
halfway line, goal areas, penalty areas and a penalty spot as we know it
today. There would be only one further change. The penalty arc was added
in 1937 after suggestions from various European Football Associations. It
is, therefore, the only part of the football pitch markings not 'Made in
Britain.'
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