Final answer:
The referee should generally continue play when a goalkeeper loses a glove unless the lost glove interferes with play or presents a safety hazard. They may stop the game to address the issue if necessary and resume play with a dropped ball. Goalkeepers are expected to manage their equipment without causing significant delays to the game.
Step-by-step explanation:
If the goalkeeper loses one of their gloves during play, the referee should typically allow play to continue unless the lost glove interferes with play or presents a safety concern. In most cases, goalkeepers are expected to manage their equipment quickly and efficiently to prevent disruption of the game.
If the glove ends up in a critical part of the field or might cause an injury, the referee may stop play at an appropriate time, in line with the Laws of the Game. This stoppage is typically done during a natural break in play and in a manner that minimizes the impact on the fairness of the match. Once the issue is resolved, the referee would then resume play with a dropped ball if the play was stopped solely for the lost glove.
It is also important to note that during stoppages, goalkeepers may retrieve or replace their equipment, and play can restart once they are ready or when the referee decides to continue. It's the referees' responsibility to make a decision that keeps the game safe and fair for all players.