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

A can of worms has been opened, folks

Photo: PA

Sheffield United’s successful tribunal ruling against West Ham could cost the Hammers £30m in compensation, and it also sets a dangerous precedent for results on the pitch being overruled by men in suits. The Spoiler decided to examine other potential footballing matters that could end up being settled by lawyers:

1) Watford miss out on the play-offs by a point

The Football League have decided there will be no replay of Saturday’s Watford/Reading match, despite the fact that the Royal’s opener was clearly not a goal. If Watford end up finishing just outside the play-off places, or if Reading wind up just inside them - does that give Watford the right to sue the Football League, the referee and the linesman?

2) Germany claim the 1966 World Cup

Sheffield United were able to win their case relying predominantly on ‘what ifs’, rather than solid facts. Imagine how successful a Germany appeal could be when they have digitally-enhanced evidence that Geoff Hurst’s second goal didn’t cross the line - another example of West Ham cheating!

3) England gain passage to the 1986 World Cup semi-finals

Maybe England could compensate for losing that World Cup by sueing Argentina for Diego Maradona’s