Ref Watch: Good, bad and bizarre

Was it handball? Did a player dive? How on earth did the referee not see the incident?

Officials’ every decision comes under intense scrutiny from fans and experts alike, and the end of a season allows us greater hindsight to run the rule over the most crucial.

In his final Ref Watch feature of the season, former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher picks out the decisions that have had everyone talking, and gives us his verdict.

The good

MATCH: Liverpool v Everton, April 20

INCIDENT: Already 2-0 down in the Merseyside derby, things went from bad to worse for the beleaguered Toffees as Ramiro Funes Mori was sent off for a dangerous-looking challenge on Divock Origi. A straight red card seemed harsh on first viewing, but many people’s opinion changed on seeing replays.

GALLAGHER’S VIEW: Red card, correct decision

GALLAGHER SAYS: It’s the best team refereeing decision I’ve seen this season. If you look at Bobby Madley’s initial reaction, he thinks it is a yellow card. Peter Kirkup is the assistant referee and has a better view, and he immediately signals to Madley that it was worse than that, and deserved a red card. Kirkup has stood up and been counted, Madley has backed him and the right decision has been made.

MATCH: West Brom v Southampton, September 12

INCIDENT: Callum McManaman went down in the penalty area under a challenge from Matt Targett in the 16th minute but nothing was given by referee Stuart Attwell, much to the home side’s frustration. Replays showed that the Saints defender won the ball.

GALLAGHER’S VIEW: No penalty, …

continue reading in source www.skysports.com