Quote Originally Posted by WES View Post
Those arguing against the goal being disallowed are making an absurd, short-sighted argument. This includes, much to my surprise, Jason Burt of the Tele.

They argue it is inconsistent given all the holding and grabbing that has been going on all year which massively misses the point that the refs have been pretty consistent all year long on corners. You can do pretty much whatever you want within reason provided you don't foul the keeper. And in this case there was a clear foul on the keeper. Examples of other alleged fouls on the keeper involve blocking them off as the ball is played, small amount of pushing etc

They don't have a single example of a keeper having their shirt tugged by one player while a second player holds their arms down so they can't catch the ball without a foul being given. They don't have anything even close to it.

It was a clear foul and there is no inconsistency whatsoever.
Refs are also clear that the impact is important. Two players grappling miles away from the ball is probably going to be ignored.

And if Raya had been nowhere near winning the ball, that foul wouldn't have been given. But he is literally underneath it, and about to catch it. He is prevented from catching by an opponent who has his arm across his throat and his hand pushing Raya's upper arm taking his hand away from the ball. The impact is huge and significant. It is a clear foul.

But pundits dont care about rules, and guidance, and they only listen to refs when it suits them.

Also, the grappling between Rice and the Greek lad is pathetic. Worse than that happens at every corner. Utter nonsense.