Attempt to play

Being able to recognize a DOGSO situation is one thing. It requires the referees to correctly identify that all four criteria for DOGSO are met. But the referee must also identify if an offense was as a result of an attempt to play the ball. This is a critical decision because it can determine the color of the card. When a DOGSO offense happens because of an attempt to play the ball, then the referee issues a yellow card. If a DOGSO offense happens not because of an attempt to play the ball (e.g. pushing, pulling, holding, and handball), then a red card must be given. 

What could be a little more difficult is when an offense like tripping happens, the referee must decide if there was an attempt to play the ball. One of the cues is how the ball, the attacker, and the defender are positioned.

Check out the video below as an example.