‘Joke’ ref blows for full-time as ball heads for goal in last second of final
An amateur referee has faced the full wrath of supporters online after appearing to blow for full-time in the midst of a last-gasp cup final winner.
As shown in a now-viral video, posted by a member of Liverpool County Premier League side Old Xaverians, a left-footed corner is swung into the area, ensuing a goalmouth scramble as both sides wrestle to take control of the situation. The first contact is won at the front post by Old Xaverians and the move is kept alive by a hopeful ball lofted towards goal.
From mere yards out, a team-mate then heads the ball beyond the diving MSB Woolton goalkeeper, sparking mass celebrations as it nestles into the top left corner of the net.
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But the wild scenes were sensationally cut short by the referee’s whistle with full-time called just before the ball crossed the goal line and the vociferous protests from Old Xaverians fell on deaf ears. Since the incident was first posted on Saturday afternoon, social media has been awash with football fans slamming the decision.
“Can’t say nothing to refs tho, shockin all round that’s a joke that,” blasted one supporter. “He hasn’t blew the final whistle there has he Sam?” asked a second, in response to the original post which was captioned “The standard of refs in amateur footy, 2-2 in a cup final and the ref does that.”
HAVE YOUR SAY! Do you think the referee wrong to blow the whistle? Let us know in the comments section.
![The goal did not stand and the match had to be decided via penalties](https://i2-prod.dailystar.co.uk/incoming/article29980198.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_MAIN-GRABS-Joke-ref-blows-full-time-whistle-as-ball-heading-for-goal-in-last-second-of-cup-fina.jpg)
(Image: @SamHarris_93/Twitter)
“Absolutely shambolic!!!,” slated a third. “Shocking but not at all surprising,” harked a fourth. “I’m not even surprised with the standards of refereeing these days. The number of shocking decisions I’ve seen recently is just a joke,” posted a fifth.
Thankfully the horrendous refereeing decision didn’t cost Old Xaverians the George Mahon Cup as they defeated MSB Woolton 4-2 on penalties.
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