The First United Goal: Proof That Rules Don't Understand the Game
The recent controversy surrounding a disallowed goal at an intense match between United and City has sparked debate around officiating in football and highlighted how important it is for those making rules off-pitch to understand what's happening during matches if they are truly going to serve justice when needed most.
Jan. 14, 2023 9:05PM
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An image of two players fighting over a soccer ball as a referee looks on with confusion written across his face
It was a moment that will go down in history. When the first goal of the match between United and City was scored, it was clear that this wasn’t just any ordinary game. It had been months since fans had seen their teams on the pitch, and this goal marked a return to normalcy for many. But what made this goal so special wasn’t just its timing—it was how it came about. The goal itself started with a free kick from United’s midfield maestro, who sent an exquisite ball into the box. A scramble ensued as both teams fought for possession, but eventually it fell to one of United’s strikers who slotted home with ease. But what made this moment even more remarkable was that it should never have happened in the first place—the referee had blown his whistle moments before the ball crossed the line, signaling an end to play and awarding City a free kick instead of awarding United a goal. This decision sparked outrage amongst fans and players alike, who felt that justice hadn’t been served and that their team had been robbed of victory. It seemed like yet another example of officials getting decisions wrong—until VAR stepped in to overturn the call and award United their rightful goal. This moment highlighted two important points: firstly, that technology can be used to ensure fairness in football; secondly, and perhaps more importantly, it showed us all that sometimes those who make the rules don’t understand or appreciate what is actually happening on the pitch. The incident has reignited debate around officiating in football, with some arguing for stricter guidelines when making decisions while others are calling for greater use of technology to help referees get calls right more often than not. Whatever your opinion may be on these matters though, there is no denying that this particular incident has shown us all just how important it is for those making rules off-pitch to understand what is going on during matches if they are truly going to serve justice when needed most.