Goal-line technology a “necessity” - Blatter
21 Jun 2012
FIFA president Sepp Blatter called the introduction of goal-line technology a “necessity” on Wednesday after co-host Ukraine exited UEFA Euro 2012 following yet another controversial incident.
Ukraine was defeated 1-0 by England in Donetsk on Tuesday, but appeared to have legitimate claims for an equaliser turned down. Marko Devic’s 62nd minute shot appeared to have crossed the line before it was cleared by England defender John Terry, only for the official standing on the goal-line to fail to signal for a goal. The incident is one of a number of high-profile cases to have risen in recent years, including a famous moment going against England at the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Writing on Twitter, Blatter said: “After last night’s match GLT is no longer an alternative but a necessity.”
In recent months, FIFA and the International Football Association Board (IFAB) have conducted goal-line technology trials incorporating the Hawk-Eye and GoalRef systems. If the trials prove successful the IFAB could approve the introduction of goal-line technology at its special meeting on July 2, where a final decision on the subject is set to be made by the game’s rule-making body. The IFAB in March reduced the number of companies bidding to implement the initiative to two, rejecting six devices to leave those put forward by Hawk-Eye and GoalRef.
Speaking to reporters in Warsaw on Monday, UEFA president Michel Platini said he expects goal-line technology to be approved at the IFAB meeting. “Yes, Blatter will do it,” Platini said. “He will (introduce) the technology, but I think it’s a big mistake. … it’s the beginning of the technology, the arrival of the technology.” Platini, who is widely considered to be Blatter’s heir apparent, has made no secret of his preference for the five-official system being used at Euro 2012 over the use of such technology. However, the failure of the officials to spot Tuesday’s incident has again called this belief into question.
