In important games, an FA Cup semi-final for example, the big decisions seem just that bit bigger than normal – Arsenal v Manchester City was no exception.
The moment in question came in the first half with the scores at 0-0 and City on the break – a Leroy Sane cross was clipped in, before Sergio Aguero and Raheem Sterling got the ball over the line between them.
But to Pep Guardiola’s disappointment, the linesman ruled that Sane’s cross had gone out of play – did it? See for yourself.
Man City have a goal ruled out, after the linesman flagged for the ball going out of play…judge this one for yourselves. ?? #EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/yTIMgqmpJR
— BT Sport Football (@btsportfootball) April 23, 2017
It looks as though the ball just about stayed in play, meaning that a goal should have been given – with Aguero and Sterling both putting the ball over line in their own way, a goal was certainly the order of the day.Understandably, some City fans were irritated by the decision.
@btsportfootball 100% a goal
— ??? ???? ????z?? (@thebluecityzen) April 23, 2017
But other fans recognised the tricky nature of making such a decision in real time – it’s a lot clearer with a slow motion video clip.
@btsportfootball @Eriksxn_23 This is a prime example why video ref is needed. I have sympathy as the Linesman/Ref only see realtime and have to make a decision.
— Jon Wood (@JonDubbya) April 23, 2017
@btsportfootball @btsport Lets be fair the tv pictures are from a position above, the assistant Ref is at ground level looking at a ball 20 foot in the air
— stephen (@blackwellmwfc) April 23, 2017
City did eventually take the lead in the second half, but after 120 minutes of play, lost 2-1 after this winner from Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez.
Alexis Sánchez strikes for Arsenal in extra-time! #EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/l0HMltr2DL
— BT Sport Football (@btsportfootball) April 23, 2017
Is it time officials received help from video technology?
