Rules of Sheffield United Mechanics (1866)
“ A goal cannot be obtained by free kick from a catch. When the ball is in touch, the side that first touches it must bring it to the edge of the touch at the place where it went in, and throw it straight out at least six yards, and it must touch the ground before coming in contact with any player, except it be kicked out at the goal-sides, then it must be taken to the corner-flag and thrown in. ”
