Posted on Thursday, 21st January 2010 by Jordan Cassalet
Thierry Henry is free at last! Henry faced a ton of criticism for his handle ball versus Ireland during their World Cup qualifying match. This hand ball led to the goal that France scored against Ireland, which allowed France to advance to the World Cup and which sent Ireland home, ending their hopes of a trip to South Africa.
As much as I wanted to see the luck of the Irish pull through, I have to agree with this decision. There are several comparisons I’ve been discussing that make it clear for me.
Let’s compare other sports, perhaps basketball. If Michael Jordan fouled a player (not flagrant) in a championship game, but the refs missed the call on this game winning opportunity I can guarantee there would be no debate if Jordan should be punished. There’s a simple reason for this - it’s the refs job to make the calls!
FIFA couldn’t find a legal reason that Henry should be penalized. A hand ball doesn’t allow them to fine him or suspend him. If the ref’s called a handball, they could have given him a card, but it’s too late for that as they obviously missed the boat on that call!
It would have been a shame to see a superstar of Henry’s caliber on the sidelines during the World Cup this summer. The punishment he was facing could have kept him out of the World Cup for several games. This is the most elite soccer tournament in the World and it would not be the same without his presence.
I’ve played soccer my entire life at high levels in the States and I’ve been part of some heart-breaking calls. Some were in my favor and some were against us, but the fingers could only be pointed at one person - The ref! It was never an issue with the players as it’s not their responsibility.
Ireland was so upset about this that they asked FIFA to replay the match. I was hoping for a rematch, but I knew that FIFA would turn it down. They can’t overturn the call and allow a rematch, but maybe this pushes for FIFA to begin using technology to help overturn calls. I would hate to see official reviews in the middle of a soccer game, but I’m not opposed to adding a referee to the end-line.
All soccer players have done something against the rules and been successful doing it. It’s part of the game! Unfortunately for Ireland, Henry got away with a bit too much and it meant a spot in the Worlds greatest tournament!
This writer is a huge soccer fan. He enjoys playing and watching soccer on his free time. Check out his reviews on the latest soccer supplies and youth soccer shoes at his blog.
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