Keith Hackett is a former international referee and now General Manager of
the Professional Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL) – the referee’s
governing body and is the Referee Ambassador for the FA, Premier League,
and UEFA.
1. What is the most controversial refereeing decision of all-time?
There have of course been many controversial decisions over the years.
Clive Thomas blowing the whistle for full time whilst the ball was entering the penalty area and a Brazil player scoring a goal that was disallowed. Thomas never refereed another international match.
1966 World Cup Final at Wembley Stadium. England v; West Germany. A strike on goal hit the crossbar and bounced down near the goal line. The referee consulted his linesman who stated it was a goal. The controversy continues.
2. Why is goal-line technology good or bad for the game in the long-term?
Some years ago I was in attendance at the Premier League Summer Conference. I was asked what I would like to see introduced to improve refereeing standards. My immediate response was goal-line technology. I then contacted Hawkeye and was involved in the development of the system.
The awarding of a goal is the most important decision in the game. It is a matter of fact decision. This system will ensure improved accuracy in decision-making.
3. What is the best way to develop young referees?
I had the pleasure of working with World Cup Final referee Howard Webb. Every decision that he made was reviewed and when appropriate discussed in detail. I would monitor his performances closely. A young referee must have courage, good fitness, and passion for the game.
4. What is the most challenging aspect of being a referee?
Managing players and achieving a high degree of decision-making accuracy.
5. What do you think of the idea to use additional assistant referees to improve decision-making?
I have witnessed at first hand the use of Additional Assistant Referees in UEFA Cup competitions. I know that they act has a deterrent to players committing offences in the penalty area. The role continues to be developed.
6. What do you think of the Rugby Football League’s decision to allow fans to ask questions of referees on social media? Could this work with soccer? Should media members be allowed to speak with referees?
I would love to see the public informed more about referee decisions and the role that they play.
I have enjoyed listening in to the comments of International Rugby Board referees managing players during the game.
Here in England former Premier League referees Alan Wiley and Dermot Gallagher will go on television to talk about referee decisions. The success of You are the Ref is the public seeking clarification on law application.
