There have been some interesting news items about goal-line technology this week.
The GoalControl system was used in all six stadia in the FIFA Confederations Cup 2013, Brazil. There was no contentious goal decision in the tournament. After the tournament, Howard Webb observed:
From my point of view, the reassurance that the system gives us is a big benefit. The system has been reliable in our tests, we have no concerns about the reliability of the system and, to know that the biggest decision in the game of all – whether or not a goal is scored – has, not that it’s been taken out of our hands, but has been given some certainty. For us, it’s a big positive. A really big positive.
Nick Clunn has produced an infographic to explain how the the GoalControl system works. I have some information about the system in my April 2013 update too.
In England, the FA has selected Hawk-Eye to provide goal-line technology for the Premier League. At a meeting in June, the twenty Premier clubs voted unanimously in favour of a five-year contract with Hawk-Eye. Negotiations are continuing about installation of a system at Wembley Stadium in time for the Community Shield on 11 August.
In Australia, the AFL will test Hawk-Eye technology in all three matches played at the MCG this weekend. It will be used on a test basis only at these games, and will not be adopted as part of the existing goal review system.
The system that will be used is designed to allow the video umpire greater control over the vision available to make a decision. Ultimately the aim is to make the decision quicker and more accurate. The current review system uses broadcasters’ footage to analyse referred decisions.
Photo Credits
Frame grabs FIFA video
AFL image frame grab, Herald Sun
