What is the outcome if play is stopped due to an outside agent and the ball is in play?

When play is stopped due to an outside agent while the ball is in play, the appropriate course of action is to restart the game with a dropped ball. This procedure acknowledges that the game was disrupted by an entity not under the control of either team, such as a spectator entering the field or an object interfering with play.

The decision to use a dropped ball serves to ensure fairness and allows the game to resume in a manner that respects the spirit of the play, as neither team is at fault for the interruption. The dropped ball is typically conducted at the spot where the ball was when play was halted. This method of restart effectively reinstates the game situation prior to the interference, ensuring that no team gains an undue advantage from the disruption.

In contrast, a continuation of normal play or restarts like a throw-in, corner kick, or any other method would not properly address the circumstances of an outside agent causing the stoppage, thus reinforcing the appropriateness of employing a dropped ball to resume the match.