Fenlon wants goal-line technology

11 March 2013 06:47

Hibernian manager Pat Fenlon has called for the introduction of goal-line technology after his side were denied a perfectly good goal in the Edinburgh derby against Hearts.

The Clydesdale Bank Premier League clash ended goalless at Easter Road after Leigh Griffiths was denied what would have been the match-winner. His ferocious free-kick after 77 minutes crashed off the underside of the crossbar before crossing the line but was not given by referee Euan Norris or his assistant.

The International Football Association Board - the body that approved the use of goal-line technology in the game - met in the capital city last weekend to discuss how the various licensed systems might be implemented. Fenlon said: "When you look at the possibility of what it has maybe cost clubs, you've got to weigh that up and see where the balance is."

The Hibs boss went on: "I think referees should be left alone to ref the game to be honest. But this is probably one area where, because it's a goal and it makes a big difference to a game and everything else within it, I think that's something that has to come in. The rest of it, I would be looking to let referees ref the game."

A controversial decision also went against Hibs at Tannadice recently when Dundee United were awarded a penalty for a foul that took place outside the box. Fenlon added: "It's disappointing. That's four big points for us that we've lost rather than dropped to be honest. I'm desperately disappointed with this decision and the decision at Dundee United.

"I did come out and say that I won't hammer referees and I won't do that. But the one thing I would ask is that they come out and explain why the decisions are given. I said to the referee at the end that they can cost people places and money so there is a lot at stake.

"This one is nearly hitting the back of the net, plus the ball is yellow and it's easier to see. But I can't do anything about it. The game was very tight and it was going to take something special to win it and it was a fantastic strike from Leigh.

"I'm not sure of the linesman's position. What the referee said to the players at the end was that if he's not sure, he can't give it. Once he has a look, I'm sure he'll change his opinion."

Other than a penalty claim by Hearts when Callum Tapping went to ground in the box, the disallowed goal was the main talking point of a largely uninspiring affair. Asked for his own views on the incident, Jambos interim manager Gary Locke said: "From where I was, it was difficult to see.

"I've just seen it again and obviously it's in but the referee didn't give it and that's the most important thing. There is no point in me sitting here worrying about it. It was a great strike and it went over the line and it's one we've got away with so maybe the luck is turning for us now."

Source: PA