Source: Telegraph
Everton winner blanked by ITV
Steve Ryder, who was presenting ITV's programme, was forced to apologise twice, citing 'technical faults' towards the end of the dramatic game, in which teenager Dan Gosling claimed a winner towards the end of extra-time.[LNB]With millions tuned into the Merseyside derby, and with the game heading for penalties, unscheduled adverts were suddenly shown. When live coverage returned, viewers saw Everton celebrating the goal.[LNB]An ITV spokesman said: "We experienced some technical problems towards the end of the game which meant that we cut away at the time of the goal. We immediately replayed the goal and Steve Ryder apologised. This would appear to be a network transmission problem. We apologise to viewers for the interruption to the game."[LNB]ITV also failed to show the game's other pivotal moment, the dismissal of Liverpool midfielder Lucas for two bookable offences, instead focusing on close-ups of other players. [LNB]After the red card, and with Steven Gerrard limping off after just 15 minutes with a hamstring strain that will keep him out of England's clash with Spain next week, Everton assumed control and were finally rewarded for their tenacity over both ties when Gosling controlled Andy van der Meyde's cross and curled a shot past Pepe Reina, thanks to a double deflection.[LNB]A spokesman for the FA confirmed that they would be discussing the matter with ITV. The incident echoed the company's coverage of the San Marino Grand Prix in 2005, when the final advert break came as the race, a close contest between Fernando Alonso and Michael Schumacher, entered its closing stages. Ofcom received 126 complaints, all of which were upheld. [LNB]
