I wasn’t overly impressed with Dean (albeit from only the highlights!) I thought neither player who was dismissed committed 2 cautionable offences and were therefore unlucky to be dismissed.
On the other hand, Darren England had an excellent match at Newcastle. Calm and authoritative, decisions generally correct including all cautions and match kept well under control.
Herein lies the problem however. Certain referees can have a string of below par performances yet receive PL games more often than not. Other referees, regardless of how well they referee, know that there will likely be a period of weeks before their next one, not allowing them to build up a good run. This is where fresh management of the PGMOL is needed - referees should be selected on a weekly basis by their performances and not simply given games regardless because they have been a PL ref for a long period of time! Rant over
I thought the two yellow cards for the Villa player were correct. The first was quite a cynical foul to stop a promising attack, which was quite typical of the game. The second was clear cut. The penalty was clearly right. The second Wolves caution was probably harsh and caused by player exaggerating contact.
I don't think too many referees have been under par this season. Even someone like Moss who I din't normally rate too highly has generally been fine from what I've seen.
I agree that likes of Jones, England and Madley should get more games. That said, it seems to be the approach the PGMO have taken for quite a while - I think Paul Tierney only got 10 games in his first PL season in 2016/17 but has done Chelsea V Liverpool and Chelsea V Tottenham this season. I guess the thinking is that there is a lot more scrutiny at PL level and they don't want to expose someone too early as probably happened with likes of Attwell. In terms of on-field performance, I would say in fairness to Riley that I think most referees have developed better or in line with expectations since being promoted to SG1 over his tenure, even if it can be a bit frustrating for first year or two. The Christmas appointments should hopefully give everyone something.