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General Refereeing => Referee / Match Official Appointments => Select Group - Premier League => Topic started by: aaa on Tue 11 Jan 2022 12:37

Title: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: aaa on Tue 11 Jan 2022 12:37
Fri 14th Jan 2022
Brighton & Hove Albion FC (First Team) v Crystal Palace FC (First Team)
Premier League    
Referee: Gillett, Jarred  Rob Jones
Assistant Referee: Nunn, Adam
Assistant Referee: Mainwaring, James
Fourth Official: Bankes, Peter
Video Assistant Referee: Attwell, Stuart
Additional Video Assistant Referee: Hussin, Ian

Sat 15th Jan 2022
Aston Villa FC (First Team) v Manchester United FC (First Team)
Premier League    
Referee: Coote, David
Assistant Referee: Beswick, Gary
Assistant Referee: Hopton, Nick
Fourth Official: Kavanagh, Chris
Video Assistant Referee: Dean, Michael
Additional Video Assistant Referee: Robathan, Daniel

Burnley FC (First Team) v Leicester City FC (First Team)  PP-COVID
Premier League    
Referee: Atkinson, Martin
Assistant Referee: Burt, Stuart
Assistant Referee: Kirkup, Peter
Fourth Official: Harrington, Tony
Video Assistant Referee: Mason, Lee
Additional Video Assistant Referee: Nunn, Adam


Manchester City FC (First Team) v Chelsea (First Team)
Premier League    
Referee: Pawson, Craig
Assistant Referee: Betts, Lee
Assistant Referee: West, Richard
Fourth Official: Moss, Jonathan
Video Assistant Referee: England, Darren
Additional Video Assistant Referee: Massey-Ellis, Sian

Newcastle United FC (First Team) v Watford FC (First Team)
Premier League    
Referee: Tierney, Paul
Assistant Referee: Hatzidakis, Constantine
Assistant Referee: Davies, Neil
Fourth Official: Jones, Robert  Dean Whitestone
Video Assistant Referee: Gillett, Jarred  Kevin Friend
Additional Video Assistant Referee: Mainwaring, James  Simon Beck

Norwich City FC (First Team) v Everton FC (First Team)
Premier League    
Referee: Madley, Andrew
Assistant Referee: Holmes, Adrian
Assistant Referee: Ledger, Scott
Fourth Official: Smith, Joshua
Video Assistant Referee: Friend, Kevin  John Brooks
Additional Video Assistant Referee: Beck, Simon  James Mainwaring

Wolverhampton Wanderers FC (First Team) v Southampton FC (First Team)
Premier League    
Referee: Salisbury, Michael
Assistant Referee: Cann, Darren
Assistant Referee: Long, Simon
Fourth Official: Marriner, Andre
Video Assistant Referee: Brooks, John  Rob Jones
Additional Video Assistant Referee: Bennett, Simon

Sun 16th Jan 2022
Liverpool FC (First Team) v Brentford FC (First Team)
Premier League    
Referee: Moss, Jonathan
Assistant Referee: Perry, Marc
Assistant Referee: Wood, Timothy
Fourth Official: Harrington, Tony
Video Assistant Referee: Mason, Lee
Additional Video Assistant Referee: Eaton, Derek

Tottenham Hotspur (First Team) v Arsenal (First Team)  PP - covid
Premier League    
Referee: Kavanagh, Chris
Assistant Referee: Cook, Dan
Assistant Referee: Lennard, Harry
Fourth Official: Scott, Graham  Andy Madley
Video Assistant Referee: Brooks, John
Additional Video Assistant Referee: Holmes, Adrian


West Ham United (First Team) v Leeds United AFC (First Team)
Premier League    
Referee: Dean, Michael
Assistant Referee: Smart, Edward
Assistant Referee: Scholes, Mark
Fourth Official: Hooper, Simon
Video Assistant Referee: Pawson, Craig
Additional Video Assistant Referee: Cann, Darren

Tue 18th Jan 2022
Brighton & Hove Albion FC (First Team) v Chelsea (First Team)
Premier League    
Referee: Friend, Kevin
Assistant Referee: Beck, Simon
Assistant Referee: Smart, Edward
Fourth Official: Scott, Graham Hooper, Simon
Video Assistant Referee: Marriner, Andre
Additional Video Assistant Referee: Perry, Marc

Burnley FC (First Team) v Watford FC (First Team)  PP-COVID
Premier League    
Referee: Pawson, Craig
Assistant Referee: Hussin, Ian
Assistant Referee: Bennett, Simon
Fourth Official: Salisbury, Michael
Video Assistant Referee: Kavanagh, Chris
Additional Video Assistant Referee: Lennard, Harry


Wed 19th Jan 2022
Brentford FC (First Team) v Manchester United FC (First Team)
Premier League    
Referee: Marriner, Andre
Assistant Referee: Long, Simon
Assistant Referee: Ledger, Scott
Fourth Official: Madley, Andrew
Video Assistant Referee: Tierney, Paul
Additional Video Assistant Referee: Davies, Neil

Leicester City FC (First Team) v Tottenham Hotspur (First Team)
Premier League    
Referee: Moss, Jonathan
Assistant Referee: Perry, Marc
Assistant Referee: Wood, Timothy
Fourth Official: Jones, Robert
Video Assistant Referee: Hooper, Simon
Additional Video Assistant Referee: Scholes, Mark
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: aaa on Tue 11 Jan 2022 12:41
SG1 in the FL

Derby County FC (First Team) v Sheffield United FC (First Team)
Football League Championship    
Referee: Scott, Graham
Assistant Referee: Wilkes, Matthew
Assistant Referee: Hudson, Shaun
Fourth Official: Drysdale, Darren

Millwall FC (First Team) v Nottingham Forest F.C. (First Team)
Football League Championship    
Referee: Bankes, Peter
Assistant Referee: Hussin, Ian
Assistant Referee: Leach, Daniel
Fourth Official: Breakspear, Charles

Queens Park Rangers FC (First Team) v West Bromwich Albion FC (First Team)
Football League Championship    
Referee: Hooper, Simon
Assistant Referee: Eaton, Derek
Assistant Referee: Venamore, Lee
Fourth Official: Whitestone, Dean
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: UmpireIan49 on Tue 11 Jan 2022 12:45
Interesting appointments.
Jarred Gillett with the big derby at Brighton, usually goes to Marriner! Another indication on how well the Australian is currently performing.

Pawson with the big game at the Etihad, and Kavanagh with the North London derby too.
 
Salisbury gets his second Prem game.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: GingerReferee on Tue 11 Jan 2022 12:48
No Michael Oliver or Anthony Taylor anywhere on the appointments???
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: SuffolkRef on Tue 11 Jan 2022 12:51
Interesting appointments.
Jarred Gillett with the big derby at Brighton, usually goes to Marriner! Another indication on how well the Australian is currently performing.

Pawson with the big game at the Etihad, and Kavanagh with the North London derby too.
 
Salisbury gets his second Prem game.

Big match also for Pawson midweek.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: GingerReferee on Tue 11 Jan 2022 12:52
Jon Moss getting a big game midweek
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: bg9 on Tue 11 Jan 2022 12:56
Great game for Gillet, although not too keen on Pawson and Kavanaghs big appointments
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: bmb on Tue 11 Jan 2022 13:19
No Michael Oliver or Anthony Taylor anywhere on the appointments???

The world cup training camp is in Abu Dhabi 17th - 21st Jan. They'll probably travel for it on the 16th and return 22nd.  Not long after they get back they will be off to Cyprus for the UEFA spring training camp which starts 29th Jan.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: tef on Tue 11 Jan 2022 14:01
Great appointment for Gillett who looks a really safe pair of hands at this level and is clearly highly regarded.

A welcome first North London Derby for Kavanagh. He's gone under the radar a bit for me this season so good to see him back with the big games.

Pawson a fairly clear choice for the big game on Saturday with Oliver and Taylor away.


Tierney VAR on the Wednesday...possible rendez-vous with Klopp at the Emirates on the Thursday?! Looking at the appointments though my money is on Atkinson for that game.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Whistleblower on Tue 11 Jan 2022 16:38
I think we can already see that of the four promoted to the SG1 for this season, Gillett is comfortably ahead of the others. Bearing in mind his previous international experience perhaps that is not surprising. Of the other three, I have the sense that Salisbury is ahead of Brooks and Harrington but that might not be borne out by the appointments. Someone will tell me.

Bankes also seems to be having somewhat of a "slow burning" season. Has he been injured ?  Coote continues to receive good appointments, one of football's little mysteries to my understanding
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: cwh on Tue 11 Jan 2022 17:31
As a matter of interest why is Massey-Ellis only doing video assistant so far this season
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: bmb on Tue 11 Jan 2022 17:43
As a matter of interest why is Massey-Ellis only doing video assistant so far this season

She has been or currently still in is injured/recovering from injury.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Claretman on Tue 11 Jan 2022 18:34
Extremely impressive game for Gillett, congrats to him.
Very underwhelmed with Coote for the Villa v Man Utd game, would have preferred the card shark.
Surprised by Kavanagh getting the North London derby as imo he hasnt be his best this season.
I guess the latter two have to start getting the big games for when the seniors on the list retire ie messrs atkinson and dean, after all there isnt much choice after our Fifa elite.
Moss seems to be go8ng under the radar of late, poss a cup final in the reckoning?
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Ref Watcher on Wed 12 Jan 2022 11:20
Moss seems to be go8ng under the radar of late, poss a cup final in the reckoning?
He has done them both already.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Ivanhoe on Wed 12 Jan 2022 11:38
Moss, under the radar ??
After his performance in the Man City v Wolves game he should be on VAR duty for a couple of months.

 
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Acme Thunderer on Wed 12 Jan 2022 13:55
I am pleased, if a tad surprised, at Gillett's appointment. The Brighton v Palace fixture may appear to be routine in terms of current PL placings, but it is a 'derby' with history which is always keenly awaited when the fixtures are announced. I wish Mr Gillett and his team all the best for this TV game. 
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Claretman on Wed 12 Jan 2022 17:55
Moss seems to be go8ng under the radar of late, poss a cup final in the reckoning?
He has done them both already.
Apologies everyone i forgot he did the 2019 league cup final.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Whistleblower on Wed 12 Jan 2022 20:00
When one thinks of some of the really good referees of yesteryear who never got awarded either the FA or League Cup Final, it is extraordinary to think that a referee of moderate ability like Jon Moss has had them both. However, the olden days were by no means perfect for they also threw up their share of extraordinary ( considering the paucity of their talent ) double Cup Final appointees among whom I would include Gordon Kew, Roger Milford ( contentious this choice as I know some really rated him ), Keith Hackett,  Mike Riley and most notably Peter Willis whom to call moderate is to be exceedingly generous.

There were also many fine referees who received the double Final honour, most particularly Jack Taylor, George Courtney, Neil Midgley, Joe Worrall (of course) and Peter Jones and others besides, I am sure.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Readingfan on Fri 14 Jan 2022 13:40
Burnley V Leicester tomorrow is off, I believe at Burnley's request.

Leicester are in danger of having a huge fixture pile-up if they progress in both Europa Conference and FA Cup - they have games against Chelsea, Burnley and Everton to re-arrange.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Claretman on Fri 14 Jan 2022 14:04
Burnley V Leicester tomorrow is off, I believe at Burnley's request.

Leicester are in danger of having a huge fixture pile-up if they progress in both Europa Conference and FA Cup - they have games against Chelsea, Burnley and Everton to re-arrange.
I guess there must be some doubt about burnley v watford next tue too if it is mainly covid cases.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: jacksback on Fri 14 Jan 2022 14:21
Robert Jones has replaced Gillett for tonight according to the PL website.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: GingerReferee on Fri 14 Jan 2022 15:08
Lots of changes

Dean Whitestone has replaced Robert Jones as 4th official at Newcastle

Kevin Friend and Simon Beck move to var on Newcastle vs Watford

John Brooks and James Mainwaring now on Norwich vs Everton as VAR

Robert Jones now on VAR for Wolves vs Southampton

Andy Madley replaces Graham Scott as 4th official on the NLD
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Hendo on Fri 14 Jan 2022 19:40
When one thinks of some of the really good referees of yesteryear who never got awarded either the FA or League Cup Final, it is extraordinary to think that a referee of moderate ability like Jon Moss has had them both. However, the olden days were by no means perfect for they also threw up their share of extraordinary ( considering the paucity of their talent ) double Cup Final appointees among whom I would include Gordon Kew, Roger Milford ( contentious this choice as I know some really rated him ), Keith Hackett,  Mike Riley and most notably Peter Willis whom to call moderate is to be exceedingly generous.

There were also many fine referees who received the double Final honour, most particularly Jack Taylor, George Courtney, Neil Midgley, Joe Worrall (of course) and Peter Jones and others besides, I am sure.

To that list I would undoubtedly add Kerren Barrett.
With due respect to all concerned I find it worrying that the likes of Coote and to a lesser degree Banks will probably end up with the F A cup final at some stage
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: TheThingFromLewes on Fri 14 Jan 2022 20:45
Also Atkinson is now in the EFL at Derby replacing Graham Scott.

His last Championship game was the play off final Fulham v Brentford IIRC.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: TheThingFromLewes on Fri 14 Jan 2022 21:23
Tottenham v Arsenal in doubt for Sunday….
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Ref Fan on Fri 14 Jan 2022 22:44
When one thinks of some of the really good referees of yesteryear who never got awarded either the FA or League Cup Final, it is extraordinary to think that a referee of moderate ability like Jon Moss has had them both. However, the olden days were by no means perfect for they also threw up their share of extraordinary ( considering the paucity of their talent ) double Cup Final appointees among whom I would include Gordon Kew, Roger Milford ( contentious this choice as I know some really rated him ), Keith Hackett,  Mike Riley and most notably Peter Willis whom to call moderate is to be exceedingly generous.

There were also many fine referees who received the double Final honour, most particularly Jack Taylor, George Courtney, Neil Midgley, Joe Worrall (of course) and Peter Jones and others besides, I am sure.

I found myself agreeing with nearly all the referees listed in both categories.  As Whistleblower mentions, some really rated Milford and I must admit I rather enjoyed watching him referee for most of his career, perhaps influenced at the time by his 'matey' style.  However, his FA Cup Final performance and those awful Gascoigne challenges persuaded me I'd been misguided. 

Of those who received the double of Finals, I don't recall seeing a lot of Peter Jones although I know he was very well respected. But Taylor, Courtney, Midgley and Worrall were all referees I thought were superb and were certainly 4 of my favourites from past decades. I would add Pat Partridge who also refereed both the FA Cup and League Cup Finals.  In the 1978 World Cup where he was England's representative, he was perhaps unlucky only to get 1 game in the middle and 2 line appointments.  I think he only refereed a single match in the 1980 European Championships too.

So thanks Whistleblower.  Some great names there as well as the 'moderates'.

Sorry to go off topic but I enjoy the nostalgia.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: referee12 on Sat 15 Jan 2022 11:02
do we know the reason why Gillet was not doing last nights sky game?

any reason graham Scott isn't involved in his appointment involving debt county? meaning Atkinson having to takeover

lots of other refereeing changes are these poss covid or injury/flu?
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: GingerReferee on Sat 15 Jan 2022 12:26
do we know the reason why Gillet was not doing last nights sky game?

any reason graham Scott isn't involved in his appointment involving debt county? meaning Atkinson having to takeover

lots of other refereeing changes are these poss covid or injury/flu?

I would guess covid as most injuries mean they can go to VAR
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: TheThingFromLewes on Sat 15 Jan 2022 13:04
When one thinks of some of the really good referees of yesteryear who never got awarded either the FA or League Cup Final, it is extraordinary to think that a referee of moderate ability like Jon Moss has had them both. However, the olden days were by no means perfect for they also threw up their share of extraordinary ( considering the paucity of their talent ) double Cup Final appointees among whom I would include Gordon Kew, Roger Milford ( contentious this choice as I know some really rated him ), Keith Hackett,  Mike Riley and most notably Peter Willis whom to call moderate is to be exceedingly generous.

There were also many fine referees who received the double Final honour, most particularly Jack Taylor, George Courtney, Neil Midgley, Joe Worrall (of course) and Peter Jones and others besides, I am sure.

I found myself agreeing with nearly all the referees listed in both categories.  As Whistleblower mentions, some really rated Milford and I must admit I rather enjoyed watching him referee for most of his career, perhaps influenced at the time by his 'matey' style.  However, his FA Cup Final performance and those awful Gascoigne challenges persuaded me I'd been misguided. 

Of those who received the double of Finals, I don't recall seeing a lot of Peter Jones although I know he was very well respected. But Taylor, Courtney, Midgley and Worrall were all referees I thought were superb and were certainly 4 of my favourites from past decades. I would add Pat Partridge who also refereed both the FA Cup and League Cup Finals.  In the 1978 World Cup where he was England's representative, he was perhaps unlucky only to get 1 game in the middle and 2 line appointments.  I think he only refereed a single match in the 1980 European Championships too.

So thanks Whistleblower.  Some great names there as well as the 'moderates'.

Sorry to go off topic but I enjoy the nostalgia.

Jim Parker from Preston… the ultimate card shark.

I’m sure others on here remember his strict disciplinary measures?!
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: GingerReferee on Sat 15 Jan 2022 14:32
Tottenham v Arsenal in doubt for Sunday….
Postponed!
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Referee99 on Sat 15 Jan 2022 14:44
Hope there’s going to be as much outrage on this forum that spurs vs arsenal has been called off as there was everton vs leicester being called off
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: GingerReferee on Sat 15 Jan 2022 15:13
Hope there’s going to be as much outrage on this forum that spurs vs arsenal has been called off as there was everton vs leicester being called off

As an arsenal fan I don't want this being postponed, but this is the first time we have requested so would be really unfair to not
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: bmb on Sat 15 Jan 2022 16:09
Hope there’s going to be as much outrage on this forum that spurs vs arsenal has been called off as there was everton vs leicester being called off

Was their outrage on here? I must have missed it. So many games called off over the last few weeks, I've lost count on which teams. I recall comments about Newcastle because it was as much an injury problem as it was covid related, which most think tough luck on re injuries. Me included to be fair, if injury related tough luck imo, if covid related then fair enough.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Leggy on Sat 15 Jan 2022 16:15
When one thinks of some of the really good referees of yesteryear who never got awarded either the FA or League Cup Final, it is extraordinary to think that a referee of moderate ability like Jon Moss has had them both. However, the olden days were by no means perfect for they also threw up their share of extraordinary ( considering the paucity of their talent ) double Cup Final appointees among whom I would include Gordon Kew, Roger Milford ( contentious this choice as I know some really rated him ), Keith Hackett,  Mike Riley and most notably Peter Willis whom to call moderate is to be exceedingly generous.

There were also many fine referees who received the double Final honour, most particularly Jack Taylor, George Courtney, Neil Midgley, Joe Worrall (of course) and Peter Jones and others besides, I am sure.

I found myself agreeing with nearly all the referees listed in both categories.  As Whistleblower mentions, some really rated Milford and I must admit I rather enjoyed watching him referee for most of his career, perhaps influenced at the time by his 'matey' style.  However, his FA Cup Final performance and those awful Gascoigne challenges persuaded me I'd been misguided. 

Of those who received the double of Finals, I don't recall seeing a lot of Peter Jones although I know he was very well respected. But Taylor, Courtney, Midgley and Worrall were all referees I thought were superb and were certainly 4 of my favourites from past decades. I would add Pat Partridge who also refereed both the FA Cup and League Cup Finals.  In the 1978 World Cup where he was England's representative, he was perhaps unlucky only to get 1 game in the middle and 2 line appointments.  I think he only refereed a single match in the 1980 European Championships too.

So thanks Whistleblower.  Some great names there as well as the 'moderates'.

Sorry to go off topic but I enjoy the nostalgia.

Jim Parker from Preston… the ultimate card shark.

I’m sure others on here remember his strict disciplinary measures?!

I remember Jim very well, a referee who had no hesitation is dismissing a player if it was needed.  Also had/has  a terrific sense of humour.  I believe he gave a lot back to Lancs football but being 250 miles away, others will know much better.  A character when referees were allowed to be characters ......
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: rustyref on Sat 15 Jan 2022 17:11
Hope there’s going to be as much outrage on this forum that spurs vs arsenal has been called off as there was everton vs leicester being called off

Was their outrage on here? I must have missed it. So many games called off over the last few weeks, I've lost count on which teams. I recall comments about Newcastle because it was as much an injury problem as it was covid related, which most think tough luck on re injuries. Me included to be fair, if injury related tough luck imo, if covid related then fair enough.

That's the problem, the rumour is that Arsenal only have one player absent through Covid.  They have four players away at AFCON , several injured and Xhaka suspended, and there is a squad rule in the EPL that will let them get away with postponement.  In the EPL you have to register a squad of 25 players at the start and end of each transfer window, but crucially you don't need to name anyone aged under 21 but they are automatically eligible to play.  Arsenal will probably actually have the minimum number of 13 players, but they san say that the likes of Saka, Martinelli, Tavares, Nketiah and Smith-Rowe don't count as they almost certainly aren't named players in the squad of 25, simply because they don't need to be as they were 21 or under at the start of the season.  If you don't count those players then they probably do have less than 13 available, but that is a nonsense.

Suporters now lose out on travel cost, hotel cost, etc, local pubs and cafes lose out on revenue, having probably got extra supplies in for a massive local derby, and it really just isn't right.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Readingfan on Sat 15 Jan 2022 17:22
Hope there’s going to be as much outrage on this forum that spurs vs arsenal has been called off as there was everton vs leicester being called off

Was their outrage on here? I must have missed it. So many games called off over the last few weeks, I've lost count on which teams. I recall comments about Newcastle because it was as much an injury problem as it was covid related, which most think tough luck on re injuries. Me included to be fair, if injury related tough luck imo, if covid related then fair enough.

I think it is a tough one.

Personally I'd probably have said games could only be postponed if intervention from public health authorities - e.g. if training ground is ordered to be closed or entire squad forced into isolation (I guess less likely to happen now as close contacts don't have to self-isolate if they've been vaccinated - but of course that's another layer to all of this, as not all players will have been.) I'd maybe have allowed clubs to have a larger squad and asked them to consider implications of transfers/loans etc.

But one of the aspects seems to be sporting integrity. Obviously that was never really an issue before Covid - if you had a lot of players absent because of internationals/injuries then it was just tough and you had to get on with it.

Should Covid materially change that? If you're allowing a team to postpone a game due to integrity of league if they have 12 Covid cases, then is it then fair to prevent them from doing this if they have 3 Covid cases and 9 players at the African Cup of Nations? What if they have 11 Covid cases and 1 player at African Cup of Nations? Or if a player tests positive who is injured for 3 months so couldn't have played anyway?

It is not an easy balance to achieve - and I'm not sure it would be fair to change the rules mid-season, even if they are having unintended consequences.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: bmb on Sat 15 Jan 2022 18:02
Arsenal will probably actually have the minimum number of 13 players, but they san say that the likes of Saka, Martinelli, Tavares, Nketiah and Smith-Rowe don't count as they almost certainly aren't named players in the squad of 25, simply because they don't need to be as they were 21 or under at the start of the season.  If you don't count those players then they probably do have less than 13 available, but that is a nonsense.

Suporters now lose out on travel cost, hotel cost, etc, local pubs and cafes lose out on revenue, having probably got extra supplies in for a massive local derby, and it really just isn't right.

That is a loophole that needs to be closed then, it's just plain wrong. 

As to the detrimental effect it has on supporters and local trade - completely agree with you.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: bmb on Sat 15 Jan 2022 18:40
Hope there’s going to be as much outrage on this forum that spurs vs arsenal has been called off as there was everton vs leicester being called off

Was their outrage on here? I must have missed it. So many games called off over the last few weeks, I've lost count on which teams. I recall comments about Newcastle because it was as much an injury problem as it was covid related, which most think tough luck on re injuries. Me included to be fair, if injury related tough luck imo, if covid related then fair enough.

I think it is a tough one.

Personally I'd probably have said games could only be postponed if intervention from public health authorities - e.g. if training ground is ordered to be closed or entire squad forced into isolation (I guess less likely to happen now as close contacts don't have to self-isolate if they've been vaccinated - but of course that's another layer to all of this, as not all players will have been.) I'd maybe have allowed clubs to have a larger squad and asked them to consider implications of transfers/loans etc.

But one of the aspects seems to be sporting integrity. Obviously that was never really an issue before Covid - if you had a lot of players absent because of internationals/injuries then it was just tough and you had to get on with it.

Should Covid materially change that? If you're allowing a team to postpone a game due to integrity of league if they have 12 Covid cases, then is it then fair to prevent them from doing this if they have 3 Covid cases and 9 players at the African Cup of Nations? What if they have 11 Covid cases and 1 player at African Cup of Nations? Or if a player tests positive who is injured for 3 months so couldn't have played anyway?

It is not an easy balance to achieve - and I'm not sure it would be fair to change the rules mid-season, even if they are having unintended consequences.

The difference for me is that covid is highly contagious so yes it should be treated differently. They already have changed the rules mid season - they now count covid + injuries, whereas before it was just covid. I don't believe teams should have the same leeway for postponement due to injury (as has been the way for years) and especially not because players are missing due to AFCON.  They know when they sign the players they'll be away for it so that's on their transfer/signing policy.  They can change that by signing more British players or just non African players even to balance their squad better. If a team chooses to sign a high number of players who will be going to AFCON then they can't then complain about squad shortages when they do, imo. They certainly should not be allowed to use it as a basis for postponements. If they have regularly played players who fall into the not needing to be named in the 25 man squad because they are under 21 category, then those players should automatically be counted towards the 13 needed. If they're good enough to play week in week out then close the loophole of them not being counted when there is an issue. It's not that long ago one of the London clubs played a European game despite the team being decimated due to food poisoning because they were refused a postponement. That same precedent should be used for injuries, imo.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: TVOS on Sat 15 Jan 2022 19:29
When one thinks of some of the really good referees of yesteryear who never got awarded either the FA or League Cup Final, it is extraordinary to think that a referee of moderate ability like Jon Moss has had them both. However, the olden days were by no means perfect for they also threw up their share of extraordinary ( considering the paucity of their talent ) double Cup Final appointees among whom I would include Gordon Kew, Roger Milford ( contentious this choice as I know some really rated him ), Keith Hackett,  Mike Riley and most notably Peter Willis whom to call moderate is to be exceedingly generous.

There were also many fine referees who received the double Final honour, most particularly Jack Taylor, George Courtney, Neil Midgley, Joe Worrall (of course) and Peter Jones and others besides, I am sure.

I found myself agreeing with nearly all the referees listed in both categories.  As Whistleblower mentions, some really rated Milford and I must admit I rather enjoyed watching him referee for most of his career, perhaps influenced at the time by his 'matey' style.  However, his FA Cup Final performance and those awful Gascoigne challenges persuaded me I'd been misguided. 

Of those who received the double of Finals, I don't recall seeing a lot of Peter Jones although I know he was very well respected. But Taylor, Courtney, Midgley and Worrall were all referees I thought were superb and were certainly 4 of my favourites from past decades. I would add Pat Partridge who also refereed both the FA Cup and League Cup Finals.  In the 1978 World Cup where he was England's representative, he was perhaps unlucky only to get 1 game in the middle and 2 line appointments.  I think he only refereed a single match in the 1980 European Championships too.

So thanks Whistleblower.  Some great names there as well as the 'moderates'.

Sorry to go off topic but I enjoy the nostalgia.

Jim Parker from Preston… the ultimate card shark.

I’m sure others on here remember his strict disciplinary measures?!

I remember Jim very well, a referee who had no hesitation is dismissing a player if it was needed.  Also had/has  a terrific sense of humour.  I believe he gave a lot back to Lancs football but being 250 miles away, others will know much better.  A character when referees were allowed to be characters ......

I was invited to a pre-season game at the Lancashire FA headquarters a few years ago by one of the officials. While sitting in the bar pre-match, I noticed Jim Parker seemed to be running the food side of things and someone like Eddie Wolstenholme, who was sat at our table, claimed Parker's chilli con carne * was legendary in those parts!


* It might have been curry
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Readingfan on Sat 15 Jan 2022 20:11
Hope there’s going to be as much outrage on this forum that spurs vs arsenal has been called off as there was everton vs leicester being called off

Was their outrage on here? I must have missed it. So many games called off over the last few weeks, I've lost count on which teams. I recall comments about Newcastle because it was as much an injury problem as it was covid related, which most think tough luck on re injuries. Me included to be fair, if injury related tough luck imo, if covid related then fair enough.

That's the problem, the rumour is that Arsenal only have one player absent through Covid.  They have four players away at AFCON , several injured and Xhaka suspended, and there is a squad rule in the EPL that will let them get away with postponement.  In the EPL you have to register a squad of 25 players at the start and end of each transfer window, but crucially you don't need to name anyone aged under 21 but they are automatically eligible to play.  Arsenal will probably actually have the minimum number of 13 players, but they san say that the likes of Saka, Martinelli, Tavares, Nketiah and Smith-Rowe don't count as they almost certainly aren't named players in the squad of 25, simply because they don't need to be as they were 21 or under at the start of the season.  If you don't count those players then they probably do have less than 13 available, but that is a nonsense.

Suporters now lose out on travel cost, hotel cost, etc, local pubs and cafes lose out on revenue, having probably got extra supplies in for a massive local derby, and it really just isn't right.

The PL website suggests those players would be taken into account as they have first team league experience - 'where a club cannot field 13 outfield players and a goalkeeper, either from their squad or appropriately experienced under 21 players, the match will be postponed'.

https://www.premierleague.com/news/2426753
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: rustyref on Sat 15 Jan 2022 20:45
That isn't being followed though.  It talks about injury and illness, yet we know the AFCON missing players are being taken into account.  If you look at Arsenal's situation, it appears to be publicly known that Odegaard is the only one with Covid, so they are using the Covid rules to get a game called off primarily because of AFCON, injuries and suspensions. 
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Readingfan on Sat 15 Jan 2022 20:59
That isn't being followed though.  It talks about injury and illness, yet we know the AFCON missing players are being taken into account.  If you look at Arsenal's situation, it appears to be publicly known that Odegaard is the only one with Covid, so they are using the Covid rules to get a game called off primarily because of AFCON, injuries and suspensions.

My reading of it is that if you have a positive Covid case and you also have fewer than 13 'first team' outfield players available, regardless of the reason, then you can get the game postponed.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: MCPridz on Sun 16 Jan 2022 00:02
OF course it should of been postponed, everyone else is allowed to do it, liverpool even lied to get the first leg postponed, leicester had players at the darts the day they had a game off, but because it is arsenal everyone is in uproar over it's like it is one rule for us and one rule for everyone else, what failed to be mentioned is we had a massive covid outbreak opening day of the season but we were forced to play we had no RB on boxing day against Norwich but we played, this is our first time requesting it and was rightly cooled off, I didn't see spurs moaning when they had a massive break over Xmas and they called Rennes had flown over, I am just hoping us and Burnley are good to go next week as I am attending that match
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: MCPridz on Sun 16 Jan 2022 00:15
Besides another point the AFCON shouldn’t be played mid-season anyway it should be like any other tournament and played in the summer
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Leggy on Sun 16 Jan 2022 11:40
Besides another point the AFCON shouldn’t be played mid-season anyway it should be like any other tournament and played in the summer

Do you think its a good idea to play a football tournament in Africa in the heat of the summer?  Even in the south of the continent (where it is technically winter) its still pretty hot in June and July.

In any case the football world does not need to revolve around big clubs - international games used to take precedence.  Its pretty insulting to the whole of African football to suggest that the needs of Arsenal (or any other Premier League team for that matter) are more important.  There have been a number of comments in the media saying that the disrespect that has been shown to AFCON is unjust, unworthy and borderline racist.  I am 100% not saying that of anyone on this forum, but it does deserve the same respect as the Euros, or the Copa America.

Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Hertsref123 on Sun 16 Jan 2022 11:58
Besides another point the AFCON shouldn’t be played mid-season anyway it should be like any other tournament and played in the summer

The afcon has always been played at this time of year, because its way too hot in africa to play in the summer. Its a major international tournament, why should a domestic league take precedence over it?
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: MCPridz on Sun 16 Jan 2022 12:01
I did see it was meant to be played during the summer before it got postponed and moved to January, and because every other major tournament is played in the summer so the AFCON should be the same
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Hertsref123 on Sun 16 Jan 2022 12:11
I did see it was meant to be played during the summer before it got postponed and moved to January, and because every other major tournament is played in the summer so the AFCON should be the same

They rescheduled due to unfavourable cimate conditions.  https://www.cafonline.com/news-center/news/communique-de-la-commission-d-organisation-de-la-can-2021
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Readingfan on Sun 16 Jan 2022 12:41
I did see it was meant to be played during the summer before it got postponed and moved to January, and because every other major tournament is played in the summer so the AFCON should be the same

The World Cup is taking place in November this year, and I think it's fair to say that's pretty major.

Of course different leagues have their seasons at different times - June/July is the middle of some seasons in some countries.

I think they are looking to hold more Afcon's in summer but as mentioned it depends who host country is and what the climate is like.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: rustyref on Sun 16 Jan 2022 13:01
OF course it should of been postponed, everyone else is allowed to do it, liverpool even lied to get the first leg postponed, leicester had players at the darts the day they had a game off, but because it is arsenal everyone is in uproar over it's like it is one rule for us and one rule for everyone else, what failed to be mentioned is we had a massive covid outbreak opening day of the season but we were forced to play we had no RB on boxing day against Norwich but we played, this is our first time requesting it and was rightly cooled off, I didn't see spurs moaning when they had a massive break over Xmas and they called Rennes had flown over, I am just hoping us and Burnley are good to go next week as I am attending that match

Liverpool had loads of positive tests, of which most turned out to be false positives.  Arsenal have ONE player unavailable through Covid, they are taking advantage of the situation to avoid having to play without their overseas and injured players.  If you look at the statement from the EPL about postponements it says clubs have to provide proof of injuries and Covid cases, there is nothing about players called up for international duty.  Yet the statement they put out yesterday about Arsenal not being able to field a team specifically refers to the players away at AFCON, they have set a very dangerous precedent here, and one that is grossly unfair on all those supporters that are now out of pocket financially.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Readingfan on Sun 16 Jan 2022 13:34
OF course it should of been postponed, everyone else is allowed to do it, liverpool even lied to get the first leg postponed, leicester had players at the darts the day they had a game off, but because it is arsenal everyone is in uproar over it's like it is one rule for us and one rule for everyone else, what failed to be mentioned is we had a massive covid outbreak opening day of the season but we were forced to play we had no RB on boxing day against Norwich but we played, this is our first time requesting it and was rightly cooled off, I didn't see spurs moaning when they had a massive break over Xmas and they called Rennes had flown over, I am just hoping us and Burnley are good to go next week as I am attending that match

Liverpool had loads of positive tests, of which most turned out to be false positives.  Arsenal have ONE player unavailable through Covid, they are taking advantage of the situation to avoid having to play without their overseas and injured players.  If you look at the statement from the EPL about postponements it says clubs have to provide proof of injuries and Covid cases, there is nothing about players called up for international duty.  Yet the statement they put out yesterday about Arsenal not being able to field a team specifically refers to the players away at AFCON, they have set a very dangerous precedent here, and one that is grossly unfair on all those supporters that are now out of pocket financially.

I presume the article on the PL's website was general guidance rather than the full rule book. At the time it was posted, there wasn't any international football being played so they might just not have thought it relevant to mention at the time. The article says clubs need to provide a list of players who are available, either from squad or under 21 players with appropriate experience, and if a player's in Africa for their country they're clearly not available for their club.

As for Liverpool, it seems a bit of an odd situation. It would be concerning if the tests were inaccurate on such a large scale. I thought Kopp also said the players still had to continue self-isolating, which presumably they wouldn't if it had been confirmed as a false positive? I'm sure Liverpool genuinely had positive test results but I don't quite fully understand the situation. I thought maybe they just meant Alexander-Arnold was the only one who actually had symptoms? 
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: bmb on Sun 16 Jan 2022 15:33
OF course it should of been postponed, everyone else is allowed to do it, liverpool even lied to get the first leg postponed, leicester had players at the darts the day they had a game off, but because it is arsenal everyone is in uproar over it's like it is one rule for us and one rule for everyone else, what failed to be mentioned is we had a massive covid outbreak opening day of the season but we were forced to play we had no RB on boxing day against Norwich but we played, this is our first time requesting it and was rightly cooled off, I didn't see spurs moaning when they had a massive break over Xmas and they called Rennes had flown over, I am just hoping us and Burnley are good to go next week as I am attending that match

Liverpool had loads of positive tests, of which most turned out to be false positives.  Arsenal have ONE player unavailable through Covid, they are taking advantage of the situation to avoid having to play without their overseas and injured players.  If you look at the statement from the EPL about postponements it says clubs have to provide proof of injuries and Covid cases, there is nothing about players called up for international duty.  Yet the statement they put out yesterday about Arsenal not being able to field a team specifically refers to the players away at AFCON, they have set a very dangerous precedent here, and one that is grossly unfair on all those supporters that are now out of pocket financially.

I don't have so much of a problem with Arsenal taking advantage of the rules, my problem is with the rules themselves and the lack of parity when dealing with clubs requests.  Leeds were severely depleted a couple/few weeks ago, including several covid cases, their request to postpone was refused. The ivory towers didn't also take into account their injuries at the time, only the covid cases, yet this week they decide to also take into account players away at an International tournament, injuries, suspended players and covid. That is unfair. That's not down to Arsenal but down to a poor system at the top. They need to tighten up the rules to close any loopholes, I don't blame any club exploiting loopholes although disagree with them doing so, if the rules have loopholes then they will be exploited. They also need to treat all clubs equally - Leeds were equally as deserving of a postponement than other clubs who have been granted them.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: MCPridz on Sun 16 Jan 2022 16:31
Leeds apparently didn’t request the game to be off
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: MCPridz on Sun 16 Jan 2022 16:34
Which I also disagree with the World Cup is a summer tournament, always has been if the country hosting can’t host it in the summer then they shouldn’t be allowed to host it simple as
I did see it was meant to be played during the summer before it got postponed and moved to January, and because every other major tournament is played in the summer so the AFCON should be the same

The World Cup is taking place in November this year, and I think it's fair to say that's pretty major.

Of course different leagues have their seasons at different times - June/July is the middle of some seasons in some countries.

I think they are looking to hold more Afcon's in summer but as mentioned it depends who host country is and what the climate is like.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Claretman on Sun 16 Jan 2022 16:44
OF course it should of been postponed, everyone else is allowed to do it, liverpool even lied to get the first leg postponed, leicester had players at the darts the day they had a game off, but because it is arsenal everyone is in uproar over it's like it is one rule for us and one rule for everyone else, what failed to be mentioned is we had a massive covid outbreak opening day of the season but we were forced to play we had no RB on boxing day against Norwich but we played, this is our first time requesting it and was rightly cooled off, I didn't see spurs moaning when they had a massive break over Xmas and they called Rennes had flown over, I am just hoping us and Burnley are good to go next week as I am attending that match

Liverpool had loads of positive tests, of which most turned out to be false positives.  Arsenal have ONE player unavailable through Covid, they are taking advantage of the situation to avoid having to play without their overseas and injured players.  If you look at the statement from the EPL about postponements it says clubs have to provide proof of injuries and Covid cases, there is nothing about players called up for international duty.  Yet the statement they put out yesterday about Arsenal not being able to field a team specifically refers to the players away at AFCON, they have set a very dangerous precedent here, and one that is grossly unfair on all those supporters that are now out of pocket financially.

I don't have so much of a problem with Arsenal taking advantage of the rules, my problem is with the rules themselves and the lack of parity when dealing with clubs requests.  Leeds were severely depleted a couple/few weeks ago, including several covid cases, their request to postpone was refused. The ivory towers didn't also take into account their injuries at the time, only the covid cases, yet this week they decide to also take into account players away at an International tournament, injuries, suspended players and covid. That is unfair. That's not down to Arsenal but down to a poor system at the top. They need to tighten up the rules to close any loopholes, I don't blame any club exploiting loopholes although disagree with them doing so, if the rules have loopholes then they will be exploited. They also need to treat all clubs equally - Leeds were equally as deserving of a postponement than other clubs who have been granted them.
What happened to the big six not having influence on the EPL after the super league fiasco?
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: bmb on Sun 16 Jan 2022 16:44
Which I also disagree with the World Cup is a summer tournament, always has been if the country hosting can’t host it in the summer then they shouldn’t be allowed to host it simple as

How disrespectful.  Not every continent has the same crap weather as the UK. AFCON is a long established tournament, it's been held during our UK season time for many years due to the climate there. A lot of countries/Federations have different season times as is their right and their choice. Many of those leagues also have a winter break as well as a summer break. The PL is not the be all and end all so why should everyone else change what is right for them just because it doesn't fit in with the PL?
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: MCPridz on Sun 16 Jan 2022 16:49
Ok then if you think I am being disrespectful that way which I am not then another reason Qatar should not be hosting the World Cup is there atrocious human rights record, you can’t give a country a showpiece event of that magnitude with how poor they treat people
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Readingfan on Sun 16 Jan 2022 17:30
Ok then if you think I am being disrespectful that way which I am not then another reason Qatar should not be hosting the World Cup is there atrocious human rights record, you can’t give a country a showpiece event of that magnitude with how poor they treat people

Well that's an entirely different matter and of course a very important aspect. But I don't think that specific situation alters the general point that football is a global game and in some circumstances January or November is a more appropriate time to play tournaments than June or July.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Readingfan on Sun 16 Jan 2022 17:34
OF course it should of been postponed, everyone else is allowed to do it, liverpool even lied to get the first leg postponed, leicester had players at the darts the day they had a game off, but because it is arsenal everyone is in uproar over it's like it is one rule for us and one rule for everyone else, what failed to be mentioned is we had a massive covid outbreak opening day of the season but we were forced to play we had no RB on boxing day against Norwich but we played, this is our first time requesting it and was rightly cooled off, I didn't see spurs moaning when they had a massive break over Xmas and they called Rennes had flown over, I am just hoping us and Burnley are good to go next week as I am attending that match

Liverpool had loads of positive tests, of which most turned out to be false positives.  Arsenal have ONE player unavailable through Covid, they are taking advantage of the situation to avoid having to play without their overseas and injured players.  If you look at the statement from the EPL about postponements it says clubs have to provide proof of injuries and Covid cases, there is nothing about players called up for international duty.  Yet the statement they put out yesterday about Arsenal not being able to field a team specifically refers to the players away at AFCON, they have set a very dangerous precedent here, and one that is grossly unfair on all those supporters that are now out of pocket financially.

I don't have so much of a problem with Arsenal taking advantage of the rules, my problem is with the rules themselves and the lack of parity when dealing with clubs requests.  Leeds were severely depleted a couple/few weeks ago, including several covid cases, their request to postpone was refused. The ivory towers didn't also take into account their injuries at the time, only the covid cases, yet this week they decide to also take into account players away at an International tournament, injuries, suspended players and covid. That is unfair. That's not down to Arsenal but down to a poor system at the top. They need to tighten up the rules to close any loopholes, I don't blame any club exploiting loopholes although disagree with them doing so, if the rules have loopholes then they will be exploited. They also need to treat all clubs equally - Leeds were equally as deserving of a postponement than other clubs who have been granted them.

What game are you referring to? I know Leeds had two games postponed over Christmas. Are you sure that they requested the game in question be postponed and that they didn't have at least 13 outfield players from their 25 man squad or under 21 players with first team experience?
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: bmb on Sun 16 Jan 2022 17:49
OF course it should of been postponed, everyone else is allowed to do it, liverpool even lied to get the first leg postponed, leicester had players at the darts the day they had a game off, but because it is arsenal everyone is in uproar over it's like it is one rule for us and one rule for everyone else, what failed to be mentioned is we had a massive covid outbreak opening day of the season but we were forced to play we had no RB on boxing day against Norwich but we played, this is our first time requesting it and was rightly cooled off, I didn't see spurs moaning when they had a massive break over Xmas and they called Rennes had flown over, I am just hoping us and Burnley are good to go next week as I am attending that match

Liverpool had loads of positive tests, of which most turned out to be false positives.  Arsenal have ONE player unavailable through Covid, they are taking advantage of the situation to avoid having to play without their overseas and injured players.  If you look at the statement from the EPL about postponements it says clubs have to provide proof of injuries and Covid cases, there is nothing about players called up for international duty.  Yet the statement they put out yesterday about Arsenal not being able to field a team specifically refers to the players away at AFCON, they have set a very dangerous precedent here, and one that is grossly unfair on all those supporters that are now out of pocket financially.

I don't have so much of a problem with Arsenal taking advantage of the rules, my problem is with the rules themselves and the lack of parity when dealing with clubs requests.  Leeds were severely depleted a couple/few weeks ago, including several covid cases, their request to postpone was refused. The ivory towers didn't also take into account their injuries at the time, only the covid cases, yet this week they decide to also take into account players away at an International tournament, injuries, suspended players and covid. That is unfair. That's not down to Arsenal but down to a poor system at the top. They need to tighten up the rules to close any loopholes, I don't blame any club exploiting loopholes although disagree with them doing so, if the rules have loopholes then they will be exploited. They also need to treat all clubs equally - Leeds were equally as deserving of a postponement than other clubs who have been granted them.

What game are you referring to? I know Leeds had two games postponed over Christmas. Are you sure that they requested the game in question be postponed and that they didn't have at least 13 outfield players from their 25 man squad or under 21 players with first team experience?

I'm not sure what the game was. Lots of Leeds fans been piping up over it so I accept they may not have applied for it to be off & I might be wrong on them being denied a postponement.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: MCPridz on Sun 16 Jan 2022 19:24
Think the opposition requested against Leeds games that were off the game where they were forced to play youth was against us where they didn’t request to postpone it
OF course it should of been postponed, everyone else is allowed to do it, liverpool even lied to get the first leg postponed, leicester had players at the darts the day they had a game off, but because it is arsenal everyone is in uproar over it's like it is one rule for us and one rule for everyone else, what failed to be mentioned is we had a massive covid outbreak opening day of the season but we were forced to play we had no RB on boxing day against Norwich but we played, this is our first time requesting it and was rightly cooled off, I didn't see spurs moaning when they had a massive break over Xmas and they called Rennes had flown over, I am just hoping us and Burnley are good to go next week as I am attending that match

Liverpool had loads of positive tests, of which most turned out to be false positives.  Arsenal have ONE player unavailable through Covid, they are taking advantage of the situation to avoid having to play without their overseas and injured players.  If you look at the statement from the EPL about postponements it says clubs have to provide proof of injuries and Covid cases, there is nothing about players called up for international duty.  Yet the statement they put out yesterday about Arsenal not being able to field a team specifically refers to the players away at AFCON, they have set a very dangerous precedent here, and one that is grossly unfair on all those supporters that are now out of pocket financially.

I don't have so much of a problem with Arsenal taking advantage of the rules, my problem is with the rules themselves and the lack of parity when dealing with clubs requests.  Leeds were severely depleted a couple/few weeks ago, including several covid cases, their request to postpone was refused. The ivory towers didn't also take into account their injuries at the time, only the covid cases, yet this week they decide to also take into account players away at an International tournament, injuries, suspended players and covid. That is unfair. That's not down to Arsenal but down to a poor system at the top. They need to tighten up the rules to close any loopholes, I don't blame any club exploiting loopholes although disagree with them doing so, if the rules have loopholes then they will be exploited. They also need to treat all clubs equally - Leeds were equally as deserving of a postponement than other clubs who have been granted them.

What game are you referring to? I know Leeds had two games postponed over Christmas. Are you sure that they requested the game in question be postponed and that they didn't have at least 13 outfield players from their 25 man squad or under 21 players with first team experience?
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Claretman on Sun 16 Jan 2022 20:26
Think the opposition requested against Leeds games that were off the game where they were forced to play youth was against us where they didn’t request to postpone it
OF course it should of been postponed, everyone else is allowed to do it, liverpool even lied to get the first leg postponed, leicester had players at the darts the day they had a game off, but because it is arsenal everyone is in uproar over it's like it is one rule for us and one rule for everyone else, what failed to be mentioned is we had a massive covid outbreak opening day of the season but we were forced to play we had no RB on boxing day against Norwich but we played, this is our first time requesting it and was rightly cooled off, I didn't see spurs moaning when they had a massive break over Xmas and they called Rennes had flown over, I am just hoping us and Burnley are good to go next week as I am attending that match

Liverpool had loads of positive tests, of which most turned out to be false positives.  Arsenal have ONE player unavailable through Covid, they are taking advantage of the situation to avoid having to play without their overseas and injured players.  If you look at the statement from the EPL about postponements it says clubs have to provide proof of injuries and Covid cases, there is nothing about players called up for international duty.  Yet the statement they put out yesterday about Arsenal not being able to field a team specifically refers to the players away at AFCON, they have set a very dangerous precedent here, and one that is grossly unfair on all those supporters that are now out of pocket financially.

I don't have so much of a problem with Arsenal taking advantage of the rules, my problem is with the rules themselves and the lack of parity when dealing with clubs requests.  Leeds were severely depleted a couple/few weeks ago, including several covid cases, their request to postpone was refused. The ivory towers didn't also take into account their injuries at the time, only the covid cases, yet this week they decide to also take into account players away at an International tournament, injuries, suspended players and covid. That is unfair. That's not down to Arsenal but down to a poor system at the top. They need to tighten up the rules to close any loopholes, I don't blame any club exploiting loopholes although disagree with them doing so, if the rules have loopholes then they will be exploited. They also need to treat all clubs equally - Leeds were equally as deserving of a postponement than other clubs who have been granted them.

What game are you referring to? I know Leeds had two games postponed over Christmas. Are you sure that they requested the game in question be postponed and that they didn't have at least 13 outfield players from their 25 man squad or under 21 players with first team experience?
I think you will find Leeds has two games postponed at their request Villa at Elland Road 28 dec and
Liverpool at Anfield 26 dec.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: GingerReferee on Mon 17 Jan 2022 21:48
Burnley vs Watford has been postponed
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: TheThingFromLewes on Mon 17 Jan 2022 22:36
Burnley vs Watford has been postponed

Burnley will be five games behind some teams above them. Quite ridiculous.
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: dave26 on Mon 17 Jan 2022 22:47
Honestly the PL is just turning into a complete and utter farce , it’s unfair on other teams aswell
Title: Re: Fri 14th – Wed 19th JAN 2022
Post by: Claretman on Mon 17 Jan 2022 22:48
Burnley vs Watford has been postponed

Burnley will be five games behind some teams above them. Quite ridiculous.
It wont help trying to avoid relegation when you are 5 games behind and poss 6 behind after this coming weekend, especially starting at the foot of the league and probably having to play sat/tue/thu/sat at some stage.
That is what you call real pressure.