Refereeing

Subterms

    More stories

    • 213 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Premier League could lose top referee Michael Oliver as official, 38, is approached for lucrative new job

      by

      MICHAEL OLIVER has been approached by Saudi Arabia to gauge his interest in quitting the Premier League.And SunSport understands England’s top referee would be open to a lucrative switch to the Gulf State.
      The Saudi Pro League is hoping to lure Michael Oliver away from the Premier LeagueCredit: Alamy
      Saudi aim to recruit European officials between now and the end of this season with Oliver one of their top targets because many clubs do not trust local referees.
      The Northumberland whistler, 38, was in the Middle East this week, officiating the biggest match in the United Arab Emirates Pro League on Thursday between Sharjah and Al Ain after PGMOL boss Howard Webb and the Prem approved the invite.
      Prem referees are able to officiate matches overseas as a one-off arrangement with Oliver in charge of Al Ain’s 3-2 win rather than any of the midweek Carabao Cup third-round games.
      Oliver, who was joined by assistants Stuart Burt and Dan Cook with Darren England as VAR, returned from the three-day trip in Dubai to Newcastle on Friday.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      He has been appointed as fourth official for Tottenham’s home clash with Liverpool and will also be the VAR when Nottingham Forest host Brentford at the City Ground tomorrow.
      Saudi have spent eye-watering money as ex-Prem players Jordan Henderson, N’Golo Kante and Ruben Neves among others made the move last summer.
      The transfer spending by the Pro League in the last window was second only to the Prem with more than £800million splashed out.
      Prem refs earn between £120,000 and £300,000 a year but salaries in Saudi would be lucrative compared to what the top-flight can offer.
      Most read in Football
      Top officials are becoming increasingly frustrated with Jonathan Moss, who became the new manager of the Select Group One in the summer of 2022, and that discontent could lead to elite referees moving elsewhere.
      Oliver, who has had previous interest from the MLS in America as reported by SunSport, is a Fifa official which allows him to referee international matches as well as European club fixtures including the Champions League.
      But if the initial interest turns into a concrete deal, Oliver would have to weigh up if it is worth giving up his badge.
      Saudi could nominate him to regain his Fifa badge, allowing him to officiate international matches again and that could be a condition of any move.
      PGMOL, the English referees’ body, said in a statement last week: “Any interest in our officials from other leagues demonstrates the strong reputation of English officials across the globe.” More

    • 188 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Sky Sports, TNT Sports and Amazon Prime hold talks over shock new Premier League documentary

      by

      THE Premier League’s main UK broadcasters have held talks over a new documentary on the lives of top-flight referees.A fresh report has claimed that an “independent production company are understood to have pitched the programme” to the three domestic rights holders.
      A new documentary on the life of Premier League referees could be in the pipelineCredit: Getty
      And Sky Sports, TNT Sports and Amazon Prime have already discussed the prospect, says the Daily Mail.
      However, they also add that the Professional Game Match Officials Limited [PGMOL] are yet to sign it off.
      Ex-Premier League referee Howard Webb was appointed as the PGMOL’s first chief refereeing officer last year.
      And he has attempted to make the body more open and “may be receptive to the idea” of the doc. 
      READ MORE FOOTBALL
      Webb recently linked up with Michael Owen in the newly launched Match Officials Mic’d Up programme, explaining controversial VAR and refereeing decisions using audio from in-game conversations between officials.
      The premise of the documentary pitch is believed to be “an attempt to humanise referees”.
      It is also hoping to give football fans a better understanding of how officials carry out their duties and the pressures they face.
      The would-be producers want to film referee training sessions as well as pre and post-game meetings.
      Most read in Football
      CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS
      But the Premier League would also need to give their approval as producer want to use unseen footage from games.
      The Mail says that a source close to the referees said: “It’s a great idea.
      “It would show a different side to them. How hard it is. The pressure they’re under.
      “To officiate a Premier League is not easy. One error and you’re vilified. So something such as this might help people see a different side to officials.” More

    • 238 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea AND Brighton fans fume after finding out Carabao Cup has no VAR as both teams suffer refereeing controversy

      by

      CHELSEA and Brighton fans were both fuming after finding out there is no VAR in the Carabao Cup.Both sets of fans were left feeling aggrieved over decisions made by referee Tom Brammall during the Blues’ 1-0 win.
      Lesley Ugochukwu escaped a red card despite a reckless tackles on Carlos BalebaCredit: Alamy
      Nicolas Jackson was judged to be in an offside position when he was played through by Cole Palmer
      First Brighton fans were left up in arms over a challenge by Lesley Ugochukwu, who made just his second Chelsea start.
      The summer arrival made a reckless tackle on Carlos Baleba and caught the midfielder high on his leg.
      Baleba’s ankle got caught under Ugochukwu’s studs and the 19-year-old was very lucky to only receive a yellow card.
      However some Seagulls felt Ugochukwu would have received a stronger punishment if the officials had the assistance of VAR.
      READ MORE ON CHELSEA
      One fan said: “Referee pathetic and they should have had 10 men yet magically no VAR for this one.”
      Another added: “Ugochukwu is so lucky there’s no VAR😭”
      A Chelsea supporter wrote: “Ugochukwu VERY lucky no VAR tonight. Bloody hell.”
      Ugochukwu was allowed to stay on the pitch and Chelsea took advantage shortly after half-time through Nicolas Jackson’s goal, which ended up being the winner.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS AND BONUSES NEW CUSTOMERS
      Jackson also put the ball in the back of the net later in the second half – only for the lineman’s flag to rule it out.
      However, replays appeared to show the striker was onside when played through by Cole Palmer, leading to frustration for Blues supporters.
      One complained: “How’s that offside? Linesmen should be way more careful if there is no VAR. Absolute joke.”
      Another added: “Two players playing Nicolas Jackson on in this move, shocking decision by the linesman.
      “Thankfully this didn’t cost us but I am not sure why there is no VAR when we have the technology available?”
      A third commented: “Can’t believe VAR isn’t being used they robbed Jackson in broad daylight.” More

    • 200 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Jermaine Jenas issues grovelling apology after ‘s***house’ comment about referee as pundit is slammed by charity

      by

      JERMAINE JENAS has issued a grovelling public apology after blasting referee Rob Jones and his VAR team during Arsenal’s draw with Tottenham.The former Spurs player accused officials of ruining the game after Cristian Romero was judged to have made a deliberate handball as he blocked Ben White’s shot.
      Jermaine Jenas has apologised after criticising referees during the North London derbyCredit: Getty
      Many fans pointed out Jenas’ hypocrisy after he fronted the ‘Love Football, Protect the Game’ campaign, during which he called for better protection for refs.
      He said in the video: “No more surrounding refs, no more abuse, no more intimidation, no more discrimination.”
      Charity RefereeSupportUK criticised Jenas’ outburst, warning his words encourages abuse of referees.
      They wrote: “This is a disgraceful tweet and you should be ashamed.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      “Your tweet encourages online abuse of referees and considering your role on TV your employers need to give their head a wobble.
      “Remember Anthony Taylor and his family were attacked at an airport because of antics such as yours.”
      Jenas took to Twitter to respond to the criticism and apologised for his statement, though he has not deleted the offending tweet.
      He said: “I hold my hands up, I got it wrong yesterday.
      Most read in Football
      CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS
      “I should know, more than most, the responsibility we have as fans, players and pundits and the impact our words online can have as it’s an area I’ve been vocal in.
      “My emotions got the better of me and I apologise to The FA and to all match officials.”
      Jenas had taken aim at referee Jones, writing: “Complete s***house off a referee! They’re all ruining our game!” More

    • 225 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea fans fume ‘do the rules just get thrown in the BIN when we play’ after referee blunder

      by

      CHELSEA players, Mauricio Pochettino and fans were left fuming after referee Jarred Gillett seemingly blew a minute early for half-time against Aston Villa.Fourth official Simon Hooper had signalled that three minutes extra should have been played in an action-packed first half.
      Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea players and fans were left furious when referee Jarred Gillett seemingly blew a minute early for half-timeCredit: Reuters
      Chelsea fans had already been frustrated with perceived time wasting from the away side and were even more incensed when the whistle went early.
      Australian referee Jarred Gillett blew the whistle before even two added minutes had even been played – leading to a huge chorus of boos around the ground in west London.
      Multiple Chelsea players went to speak with Gillett, while Blues boss Poch walking halfway across the pitch and could be seen speaking all the way back into the tunnel and beyond.
      Twitter account CFCDaily summed up the feelings of many Chelsea fans, writing: “Do the rules just get thrown in the bin when Chelsea games get played?

      “Villa players constantly surrounding the referee & now blows up the whistle 65 seconds early of his own added time.”
      The game was 0-0 at half-time with Nicolas Jackson wasting a decent chance and Chelsea keeper Sanchez making two incredible saves from Lucas Digne and Nicola Zainolo.
      However, things went from bad to worse for Chelsea as Malo Gusto was sent off just before the hour for a high tackle, with Gillett again becoming the target for Chelsea fan anger.
      The referee checked the VAR monitor before brandishing a straight red card to the defender.
      Most read in Football
      Do the rules just get thrown in the bin when Chelsea games get played? Villa players constantly surrounding the referee & now blows up the whistle 65 seconds early of his own added time.— CFCDaily (@CFCDaily) September 24, 2023

      What a weird refereeing display at Stamford Bridge.Gillett books Digne, yet the VAR check was for a Sterling red as Digne’s face is covered in blood.Then after 3 minutes added on he blows for HT before the 2nd min even begins! pic.twitter.com/xb4t7u1ddE— FPL Villan (@FPLVillan) September 24, 2023

      Jarred Gillett should hang his head in shame. A farcical refereeing performance from minute one. Horrific. But then again, just officiating like the PL refs usually do.— Matt Debono (@MattDebonoAC) September 24, 2023

      New levels of shambles from pathetic PGMOL. 3 minutes of added given, barely 60 seconds played before Jarred Gillett blows whistle for HT.Utter clown car of hacks.— Daniel Childs ☕️ (@SonOfChelsea) September 24, 2023

      FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS AND BONUSES NEW CUSTOMERS
      With the Blues down to ten men Aston Villa smelt the blood of a team low on confidence.
      Robert Sanchez had already made two world-class saves but could do nothing when Villa pounced on an uncharacteristic Thiago Silva error and broke forward with Ollie Watkins.
      Watkins drove into the box and fired a brilliant low effort across goal and into the bottom corner, scoring the only goal of a 1-0 win.
      Down to 10 men there was little Chelsea could do to mount a comeback, the home side looking devoid of confidence and struggling to create anything clear-cut.
      Their best chance fell to Ben Chilwell just moments after Villa had scored, but the defender – who had an age to pick a spot – fired a team effort to Emi Martinez’s near-post.
      Mauricio Pochettino’s side slipped to a third defeat in six and a third game without finding the net.
      To make matters worse Nicolas Jackson – who had been warned by Poch over his discipline earlier this week – picked up yet another silly yellow card for blocking a Martinez clearance.
      That was Jackson’s fifth yellow card in six games and means he is banned for the game against Fulham a week on Monday. More

    • 225 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Landmark VAR moment at Aston Villa vs Crystal Palace as fans left stunned by extremely rare refereeing decision

      by

      FANS were left stunned by a rare refereeing decision during Aston Villa’s win over Crystal Palace.Referee Darren England was involved in a landmark VAR moment during the dramatic clash on Saturday.
      Darren England stuck with his decision after consulting the VAR monitorCredit: PA
      England had pointed to the penalty spot after he deemed that Villa striker Ollie Watkins had been fouled by Chris Richards.
      However, he was then called over to the pitchside monitor following a VAR check to review his decision.
      Following a lengthy stoppage, though, England opted to stick with his on-field decision, much to the surprise of fans inside the stadium and at home.
      England’s call marked the first time this season that a Premier League referee has gone against VAR and stuck with his decision.
      READ MORE CRYSTAL PALACE NEWS
      Reacting to the incident, one fan tweeted: “Darren England sent to the monitor by his VAR team and sticks with his original decision. Only Palace.”
      Another added: “Finally a referee who sticks with his decision when incompetent VAR tries to overrule. Fair-play Darren England.”
      A third supporter also commented: “I need to hear the 5 minute long conversation Darren England had with the VAR immediately.”
      Meanwhile, one more wrote: “Can’t remember the last time a ref didn’t overturn a VAR screen review… Had to be Darren England against us didn’t it.”
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS AND BONUSES NEW CUSTOMERS
      Once the penalty was finally taken, Douglas Luiz scored from 12 yards to give Villa the lead deep into stoppage time.
      Leon Bailey then made it 3-1 in the 11th added minute to complete the scoring and seal a comeback win for the hosts.
      Palace had been ahead as late as the 87th minute following Odsonne Edouard’s opener.
      However, they were pegged back by Jhon Duran before the stoppage time drama saw Villa claim all three points.
      VAR had reviewed the decision to award Aston Villa a penaltyCredit: Reuters More

    • 238 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Watch moment shocking brawl breaks out as football stars chase and attack referee who turns around and throws PUNCHES

      by

      A REFEREE who was attacked by players has been caught on camera turning around throwing punches back.Footage of the incident shows the shocking brawl breaking out during a football match.
      Footage showed the shocking moment a referee threw punches at playersCredit: TIM
      The incident occurred during a match in IndiaCredit: TIM
      Players can be seen chasing the referee before he fights back against his attackers.
      The incident occurred during a match in the Tripura State League, taking place in Agartala, India.
      Triveni Sangha Club and Ramakrishna Sangha Club had been playing on September 13 when the unsavoury scenes occurred.
      Referee Tinku Dey was met with a furious reaction from the Triveni players after showing a red card.
      READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS
      He was chased and struck by one of the players before retaliating by hitting two of the footballers.
      Club staff and other officials then separate the referee and players in an attempt to cool the situation.
      Footage of the brawl shows that tempers continued to flare despite the interventions of others before eventually being resolved.
      “It is an unexpected incident that has occurred,” Tripura Football Association President Pranab Sarkar told media.
      Most read in Football
      CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS
      “On the pitch, there was uproar about the referee’s judgement. The players raised their hands at the referee.
      “The referee then thrashed them. This has been brought to our attention. We’ll meet in two or three days to decide on the whole matter.”
      Players had attacked the referee after he showed a red cardCredit: TIM More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      FA disclose reason Virgil van Dijk was so fuming with red card at Newcastle as referee notes are revealed

      by

      VIRGIL VAN DIJK did not accept he deserved a red card at Newcastle – because he had got away with a similar tackle a week earlier.Liverpool skipper van Dijk will serve an extra one-match ban against Wolves on Saturday for his reaction after being dismissed for bringing down Toon striker Alexander Isak.
      Virgil van Dijk has been given an extra one match banCredit: Rex
      Van Dijk picked up a red card against Newcastle for a tackle on Alexander IsakCredit: Reuters
      And the full written reasons of the FA commission where Dutch defender van Dijk admitted his misconduct charge – also leading to a £100,000 fine – show the Liverpool skipper felt he was the victim of inconsistent officiating.
      But van Dijk WOULD have been hit with a second extra game and additional £50,000 were it not for his clean disciplinary record.
      While there was dispute between Liverpool and the FA over whether the player was calling referee John Brooks “an absolute f***ing joke” – or merely showing his anger at the decision, the commission deemed that immaterial.
      In his submissions to the commission, van Dijk confirmed he had “immediately” apologised to both Brooks and fourth official Craig Pawson in the St James’ Park tunnel at the end of the game.
      READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS
      Van Dijk said: “Mr Brooks and Mr Pawson accepted my apology and acknowledged that they understood the emotion of the game had been a significant factor.”
      On his behalf, Liverpool, though, explained: “The player wishes to convey that his frustration arose from his genuine belief that his tackle on Alexander Isak was a fair challenge and not a foul. 
      “In our discussions with the player about the incident, he has explained to us that he did the same or a very similar tackle against Dominic Solanke during the match against Bournemouth the week before and that tackle was not deemed a foul. 
      “This seemingly inconsistent approach contributed to the player’s frustration.”
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS AND BONUSES NEW CUSTOMERS
      Liverpool added: “He is adamant that he did not call the Referee a ‘f***ing joke’ and that he was referring to the referee’s decision and the subsequent decision by the VAR not to overturn the decision when he said ‘absolute f***ing joke’.”
      Although Liverpool pointed out that van Dijk was awaiting VAR confirmation of Brooks’ call before leaving the pitch, he was found to have ignored orders to go off “for approximately 15 seconds”.
      John Brooks was the man who gave van Dijk his marching ordersCredit: Alamy
      The Liverpool defender vented his frustration at Brooks regarding the decisionCredit: Reuters
      The three-man commission of Bradley Pritchard, former Sheffield United striker Tony Agana and Mick Kearns explained: “This contributed to the prolonged nature of the incident.
      “We further noted the impact of the actions used by Virgil van Dijk. 
      “Despite the clear frustration he felt at the time, it was inappropriate to display it in the manner he did; specifically his body language and hand gestures towards the referee. 
      “This was further exacerbated upon leaving the field of play when he continued to protest to the fourth official on the touchline, and only ceasing when his manager intervened. 
      “Such actions are highly inappropriate and avoidable. His actions and words fell significantly short of the core principles of behaviour.”
      Explaining the punishment, the commission ruled to accept the FA’s “starting point” of a two match ban and £150,000 fine, reducing the sentence because of van Dijk’s admission of the charge and previous good record.
      Jurgen Klopp will be without van Dijk in the Premier League until Liverpool’s clash with West Ham on September 24Credit: Alamy More