Referees’ chief is sorry for really crappy refereeing

Striker Freddie Sears believed he had secured his first goal for Crystal Palace at the weekend, but was denied by referee Rob Shoebridge. Unlike every single other person at Ashton Gate, he failed to see the ball bounce of the stanchion at the back of the net. Accordingly, the the ref and his two assistants have been struck off until further notice.Understandably, Neil Warnock was mighty peeved by the decision that cost his side an away point at Bristol City, and has called for the introduction of goal line technology. (Frankly, we think the Football League would be better off introducing competent officials.)

Despite insisting that Bristol City’s tainted victory must stand, referees’ head honcho Keith Hackett has issued a public apology to Warnock:

“You would first of hope they have spotted that particular incident. Under law, the fourth official is not allowed to assist in the process had he seen it.

“It is disappointing. I have spoken to Neil Warnock this morning and apologised to him on behalf of the match officials and, of course, the PGMOB,

and I make a public apology to the players and also the spectators of Palace.

“They travel away, they spend a lot of money and it is very disappointing that when the ball does strike the net, it is ruled out and not given.”

Such an admission of guilt from the Professional Game Match Officials Board is relatively unusual, but we’re sure it’s in no way connected to the fact that Hackett used to write a column in the Palace matchday programme.