[bainsey]

Allow me to answer a few...

Originally Posted by mbcrowder

First ... the clock. WTH is with the clock going up? Instead of stoppage time, why not actually STOP the clock?

I used to think the same, but just forget about it. The FIFA folk decided a long time ago that once the clock starts, it doesn't stop. That's how it's done around the world, and that's what's accepted.

Somewhere, there's a YouTube video of a high school game where someone nailed a last-second shot (which I thought was late, but I digress), and comments from outside the U.S. thought it was ridiculous that there was a firm time limit. To them, that's not football, and we're in the minority on that one.

Now, since the clock never stops, here's a reason for time added on. Let's the half ends at 45:00. At 44:50 a striker goes on a breakaway and gets nailed by a defender 20 yards out. Ten running seconds is not enough time to set up a decent free kick, so if you can't stop the clock, you have to tack it on the other end. That's why they let plays "play out."

Second, HTH can you expect ONE referee, and 2-4 junior level helpers that aren't even allowed on the field, to officiate a game that's played on a MUCH larger surface than football and features constantly changing location of play - when it takes SEVEN to do football - and several of those on the field.

Apples and watermelons. In football, 22 guys are crammed into a much tighter space than 22 in soccer. While you do indeed get straightlined in soccer, like any other sport, you don't need seven guys. And yes, the four officials have unique responsibilities.

Third, WTH is this "we don't even have to tell you what the foul was" nonsense.

I completely agree. Someone tried to explain to me that other cultures don't view "owning up" in the same way we Americans do, but confusion is universal. That should change.

Lastly - I'm not yet in the "instant replay" crowd for soccer - especially if they fix the not-enough-referees situation... but there should DEFINITELY be an after-game review of every card handed out.

Actually, I'd prioritize something technological for goal review over reviewing every card. The missed goal in the England/Germany game is understandable -- I wasn't sure myself until I saw the replay -- but it can be solved with the assistance of the fourth official. I agree that cards should have some review process, but I think getting goals right comes first.