Viper
JF-Expert Member
- Dec 21, 2007
- 3,666
- 1,404
Referees are remembered for their big decisions in big games. Unfortunately Martin Atkinson got some wrong on Tuesday night and they cost Manchester United.
Atkinson failed to deliver consistency in similar incidents, the basic requirement for match officials
In the first half, Manchester United were denied a penalty when John Terry handled a shot from distance. Although his hands were by his side, the ball travelled a long way and Terry ensured that the ball did not pass - a clear offence. Nothing was given.
However, when Yury Zhirkov took the opportunity to go over Chris Smalling's outstretched leg, Atkinson had no hesitation in awarding the home team a spot kick. It was soft, but just about the correct call.
An even clearer example came when David Luiz deliberately tripped Wayne Rooney off the ball - a clear cautionable offence.
As he had already been cautioned, Luiz should have been dismissed. Nemanja Vidic was not afforded such tolerance later in the game.
Last Saturday, Manchester United coach Mike Phelan asserted that 'you can't dispute a referees' decision'. After this display by Atkinson, Sir Alex Ferguson is unlikely to agree.
Atkinson failed to deliver consistency in similar incidents, the basic requirement for match officials
In the first half, Manchester United were denied a penalty when John Terry handled a shot from distance. Although his hands were by his side, the ball travelled a long way and Terry ensured that the ball did not pass - a clear offence. Nothing was given.
However, when Yury Zhirkov took the opportunity to go over Chris Smalling's outstretched leg, Atkinson had no hesitation in awarding the home team a spot kick. It was soft, but just about the correct call.
An even clearer example came when David Luiz deliberately tripped Wayne Rooney off the ball - a clear cautionable offence.
As he had already been cautioned, Luiz should have been dismissed. Nemanja Vidic was not afforded such tolerance later in the game.
Last Saturday, Manchester United coach Mike Phelan asserted that 'you can't dispute a referees' decision'. After this display by Atkinson, Sir Alex Ferguson is unlikely to agree.