Question Number: 31092

Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct 12/7/2016

RE: Rec Adult

Russell of Sydney, Australia asks...

Yet another PK decision I need help with.

In regard to the Dynamo v Besiktas UCL match this morning, can you please explain how the ref came to the conclusion that the Besiktas defender was at fault in the penalty.

BTW, when are the next academy awards?

And I feel sorry for their keeper, as three of the six goals came from a follow up shot from saves or blocks he made, while one was a (dubious) penalty and one a significant deflection.

http://www.sbs.com.au/ondemand/video/826230851913/Dynamo-Kiev-v-Besiktas

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Russell
It looks to me that the Besiktas defender may have tripped the Dynamo Kiev opponent when the defender went to ground. The leg action of the defender looks somewhat suspicious and from the reaction of Referee Craig Thompson the decision may have been made by the AAR to the side of the goal. The referee is seen to move to allow play to continue so it was certainly doubtful and one that could easily be not given. I doubt I would have given it as it is not plainly obvious that the falling defender did anything very obvious other than suspicious. Angle of view might show an unnatural leg action and certainly when viewed from front left it looks more like a foul which is why I believe the AAR gave it. As there was no attempt to play the ball it was a DOGSO red card.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Hi Russell,
it was difficult to think the AR looking across and the CR looking at the rolling action once the defender hit he ground leapt to the conclusion the flailing leg contact was a deliberate trip worthy of a red card. I think it was talked about over the phone! We know enough that real time and angles play a huge part but although I too thought it harsh, his match his decision his reputation is based on what he believes occurred!. The incredulous look by the defender he appears to agree with as you think! However, given it was ruled as a disguised deliberate trip to stop the opportunity the red card send for DOGSO is required! Always remember what we THINK we see is rarely the same as what the referee DID see. If anything the ESSE incident drove home that point in 98.
Cheers & Merry Christmas