World first for A-League with use of football video review system
Wellington Phoenix defender Marco Rossi might not be revelling in it just yet, but he has a piece of football history no-one can take off him.
The piece of history he made was to become the first player to be the subject of football’s Video Assistant Referee system.
Rossi and the Phoenix were making a good go of things in their clash with runaway leaders Sydney FC when it history happened.
Rossi leapt in attempt to head the ball away but had his arm extended. Sydney FC players immediately began protesting to referee Shaun Evans and as soon as play stopped the review was ordered. Video referee Jared Gillett then took over in the booth.
It all happened quickly and with a minimum of fuss – and most importantly the right decision was made and Sydney were awarded penalty for Rossi’s handball.
Despite the fact the decision was made in the review booth, the Phoenix players still couldn’t help but gather around the man with the whistle to voice their disapproval.
Sydney FC striker Bobo made no mistake with the penalty kick and the match continued.
While FIFA’s lengthy holdout on the use of a video review systems was largely based around their wish to have all matches played with the same rules, the professional game deserves to have the correct decision made.
