Henry handball must prompt video replays
Betfair blogger Phil Tomlinson feels that Henry’s handball must prompt the introduction of video replays.
The debate over introducing television replays in football has been a long-standing one, but after France’s controversial goal against Ireland in Paris the footballing authorities must act quickly.
The old saying that “cheats never prosper” might as well be banished to the doldrums as France find themselves with a place at next summer’s World Cup finals.
Les Blues’ extra-time equaliser in the 1-1 draw with Republic if Ireland on Wednesday should never have been allowed. Thierry Henry handled the ball, albeit subtly, before squaring for William Gallas to score, but with the referee obscured by two Irish players the official could not see the offence and allowed the goal to stand.
However a 60-second stoppage to review footage would have spotted the offence and the right decision would have been reached.
Arguments over the game being slowed down don’t hold much water; the Irish players’ protests in Paris lasted around 30 seconds anyway and in that time the video evidence could have been replayed and a decision reached.
And I’m sure a survey of players and managers would indicate they would prefer a minor stoppage rather than becoming the latest victims of a piece of cheating.
In the heat of battle I don’t think Henry can be blamed for his actions, it was probably an involuntary reaction, although he could have rectified the situation soon after by informing the referee.
But if one of the most decorated players in Premier League history can commit such an act then it probably suggests the majority of players would also have done exactly the same thing with so much at stake.
Extra officials have been introduced in Europa League matches this season and that might well have resolved the issue in this instance but video technology is the way forward and with the World Cup finals on the agenda next summer they need to introduce the system as a matter of urgency.
In other sports betting news, the odds for the Cheltenham Gold Cup are heating up, so these could be well worth keeping your eye on.
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