Former Premier League referee Chris Foy provides insights into key match decisions from the latest Sky Bet Championship, League One, and League Two action in his segment 'Behind the Whistle' on Sky Sports. Foy aims to offer supporters of EFL clubs a better understanding of the decision-making process and interpretation of the laws of the game.
Incident: Possible Second Yellow Card (Sheffield Wednesday)
Foy explains that a Sheffield Wednesday player received a second yellow card for a deliberate foul that stopped a promising attacking opportunity for Millwall. The referee's decision was based on the clear cynical nature of the trip.
Incident: Possible Penalty - Foul (Preston North End)
Foy commends the officials for correctly judging an offside call and a penalty appeal in a play involving Preston North End. The referee's positioning allowed him to make the right decision regarding minimal contact in the penalty area.
Incident: Possible Penalty - Handball (Stevenage)
In a corner kick situation, Foy points out that a penalty should have been awarded due to a defender's arm being in an unnatural position, resulting in contact with the ball. Despite the difficulty of the situation, Foy believes this offense should have been spotted.
Incident: Possible Penalty - Foul (Fleetwood Town)
Foy criticizes the officials for not awarding a penalty to Fleetwood Town after a sliding challenge resulted in contact with a Barnsley player. Foy believes the challenge warranted a penalty, and the officials misread the situation.
Incident: Possible Red Card - Violent Conduct (Accrington Stanley)
Foy supports the referee's decision to issue a red card for violent conduct when an Accrington player struck an opponent with his elbow after the ball had gone out of play. The action was deemed non-footballing and met the criteria for violent conduct.
Incident: Possible Red Card for Serious Foul Play (Mansfield Town)
Foy explains the referee's decision to show a yellow card instead of a red card for a challenge that, while reckless, did not exhibit excessive force. The referee's composure and assessment of the challenge led to the appropriate disciplinary outcome.
Chris Foy's analysis provides valuable insights into the intricacies of refereeing decisions in the EFL, shedding light on the considerations and interpretations that officials make during matches.
