Date:         Fri, 26 May 2006 09:46:45 -0400
Reply-To:     Discussion of Topics for Soccer Referees
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Sender:       Discussion of Topics for Soccer Referees
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From:         Neil Montgomery <[log in to unmask]>
Subject:      Re: Denial of scoring opp. and cards
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The Geissmans wrote:
> Fred, I realize you're being diplomatic, but you seem to say there is
> only one possible way to interpret this situation, no matter what other
> considerations may be brought to bear. 

Pot, kettle, black, from one who has hung his hat on "my way follows the 
spirit, and the other way is the book way."

The fact that the "other way" is the book way is only one argument in 
its favour, but not necessarily the biggest.

I have attempted to communicate as strongly as I can that I really think 
what Lehmann did was a gross offense against the game itself and 
thoroughly deserving of a red card. In other words, I really think the 
spirit of the game is best served with both the goal and the dismissal.

I also concede that my view will not carry the day, and that's fine. I 
still think the IFAB should make an explicit announcement on this 
matter, since it is such a crucial point of interpretation for a 
situation that is exceedingly rare.

Neil