Pup playing with another on a long line??!

[catbus]

Got a double ended lead with the harness that I can see will make a sufficient line for now- will probably invest in a longer one though.
Anyway, Clover has met another pup and is obviously itching to run off lead like a loon and play with him.
How on earth can I do this without becoming a maypole with a long line?
So far I've just had to cut her play short- I was getting the lead tangled around the other owners legs too and the whole thing feels quite awkward.
There doesn't seem to be a decent enclosed area for them to bomb about and tbh I don't know the bloke well and not comfortable with asking him to meet up specifically- we just bump into one another in the evenings and I don't think he can walk very far or fast- hence his pup off lead for long burn offs.
Help!

Sorry can't help, but marking my place as I'm about to invest in a long line and what you describe is exactly what I visualize happening...

If you're happy that she's ok playing with the other dog and isn't likely to run off while she's occupied with that you can let the line go and just step/stand on it if you think she's getting away from you. Tying knots along the length of the line can help stop it slipping from under your foot.

The double ended lead is probably not going to suit this purpose, as the second catch could cause injury. You needs something longer like this or this. I prefer the first type personally.

If you have a long line - you will need to get a longer one than you have - you can let go of the long line whilst the dog is playing - the lead will be trailing behind on the ground and less likely to get tangled.

Although I would be preventing mad playing around with other dogs if you are working on recall (I am guessing this is the reason you are using a long line)