What should a referee do if time runs out before a direct free kick can be taken?

In the scenario where a direct free kick is awarded and time expires before the kick can be taken, the correct course of action is to end the half despite any complaints. The Laws of the Game state that when the referee signals the end of a half or the match, that whistle indicates that time has concluded and no further play can take place, including a direct free kick. This maintains the integrity of the match and ensures that all decisions made by the referee are upheld.

Players, coaches, and spectators may express dissatisfaction with this decision, particularly if they believe the kick could have had an impact on the game, but the referee's role is to enforce the rules firmly and fairly. Time does not extend for a direct free kick just because it is awarded at the end of a half; any actions taken must conclude when the time is officially over. This is integral to maintaining order and respect for the game's regulations.

The other options suggest actions that would violate the established rules. For instance, extending the time would be against the principle that once time is called, plays and kicks cannot be allowed to continue. Resetting time or allowing the kick to be taken also undermines the definitive nature of the final whistle from the referee, making it clear that the