'Goal referees' to make debut

In an attempt to help football referees get the big decisions right Uefa is using this season's Europa League games to try out a new idea.

But instead of using video technology like other sports such as rugby, tennis and cricket, European football chiefs have decided to put an extra match official behind each goal.

They'll be in radio contact with the referee and be able to offer advice on all the big decisions such as diving, penalty claims and whether or not the ball crosses the line.

Everton, Fulham and Celtic are all involved in games this season but Everton manager David Moyes says he's not been given many details on the change.

"We do know they'll be miked up and if they see things they can tell the referee," he said.

"They will at times come on the pitch very slightly, but not too far. But, overall, if it helps get the decisions right it'll be good for the game."

David Riley though, who's 25 and from Longfield in Kent, isn't convinced.

"I think it's a good idea so long as it doesn't interfere with the running of the game. If there's a lot of stopping then maybe not."

Peter Lamb, 25 and from Peterborough, said: "They need to have firm lines about what they're going to actually use it for.

"There's a lot of money involved in European games now and also for the fans it's sickening when the referee gets it wrong."

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