Sheriff_John_Bunnell_ret
Well-known member
Watching the replay you can see elleray put his hand to his mouth and then he points at the spot. It looks like he's given a penalty. I can't see any sign of a foul by either side. And I'm not sure if he whistles or not as it's a very quick movement. You certainly can't hear a whistle. Theres a mad scramble then he starts whistling again and the play is stopped. It's all very weird. And I'm not entirely sure the entirety of the ball crossed the line.I've heard Elleray explain that decision in different ways and he did say it was one of his biggest mistakes.
You can see him pointing in that photo. But if he whistles earlier why didn't play stop? Didn't they hear? And if he didn't blow the whistle for a foul, why didn't he speak to the linesman? Was he russian?
My best guess is he thinks the Boro player sliding across might have handled it. The whistle to the lips and point is instinctive. There's a scramble and he isn't sure what to give. But having given a red and a penalty against thinks **** it and gives us a free kick.
Its all very strange. There should be a netflix documentary on it.