<Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This article needs additional citations for verification . Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources . Unsourced material may be challenged and removed . (July 2009) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> </Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This article needs additional citations for verification . Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources . Unsourced material may be challenged and removed . (July 2009) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> <P> A face - off is the method used to begin and restart play after goals in some sports using sticks, primarily ice hockey, bandy and lacrosse . The two teams line up in opposition to each other, and the opposing players attempt to gain control of the puck or ball after it is dropped or otherwise placed between their sticks by an official . </P> <P> Hockey face - offs are generally handled by centres, although some wingers handle face - offs and, very rarely, defensemen . One of the referees drops the puck at centre ice to start each period and following the scoring of a goal . The linesmen are responsible for all other face - offs . </P>

When does a face off happen in hockey