Foosball Rules for Goalie Scores

According to the United States Table Soccer Association, any legally scored ball counts during regular gameplay. This means that a goalie can score at any point during the game, and as long as there is no interference the goal will count. However, in a specialty game of foosball called "Goalie War" there are specific rules determining how goals can be scored by a goalie. In this version, the three- and five-man rods are lifted and the goalies go head to head against one another.

Dropping the Ball

When the ball is served, or dropped onto the table, it must be stopped for a full second before the goalie can attempt to score on the other goalie. The ball must also touch two men before the goal counts. The time limits begin one second after the ball has touched the second man.

Possession of the Ball

The goalie must have possession of the ball in order to shoot it. The defensive area extends from the back wall to the end of the two-man rod. If the ball goes into the center of the board, the player who last had the ball in his defensive area loses possession. If a ball hits any posts, players or foreign object it is still considered a "live ball" and play continues.

Time Limitations

The ball cannot remain in a player's defensive area for longer than 10 seconds. Also, if a ball happens to be pinned by a man for more than three seconds, the player must pass the ball to someone else before they can attempt to score.