EPL: Goal-line Technology to be introduced in 2012!

Finally!

In what could be a defining moment in world football, world’s most watched football league, Barclays Premier League could see goalline technology introduced as early as the 2012-13 season, according to its chief executive Richard Scudamore. It’s worth noting that here, at Sportskeeda we had a gruelling debate about the nuances of technology in football last month, which was hugely popular.

It’s a well-known fact that FIFA are reluctant to back technology as they believe it hampers with the uncertainties of the beautiful game. Earlier, FIFA heavyweights Sepp Blatter and Michael Platini have openly expressed their apprehensions about introducing technology in football. This announcement by chief executive Richard Scudamore can have huge repercussions in the world of football. To quote -

“The whole point of the game is about scoring goals. Players strain every sinew to either create or deny them, fans shout themselves hoarse exhorting their teams to score them, managers’ and players’ careers can be defined by them.

“The technology is available, it is the fairness that is important and the Premier League would introduce it tomorrow if it could. Now Fifa is constructively engaged we are hopeful the 2012-13 season is a realistic aim.”

This debate has been ensuing for a long time now and it was blown out of proportion when England midfielder Frank Lampard’s goal was wrongly disallowed in a knockout tie against Germany in last year’s FIFA World Cup, a decision that eventually resulted in an acrimonious exit for the Three Lions. After another season of refereeing howlers in EPL, this announcement will be welcomed with cheers from teams and fans, alike. Scudamore was quick to denounce FA’s role in ruining English football for the fans.

“Some would have it that football in England is somehow broken, irreparably damaged and in need of saving. That is an analysis of the game to which I cannot subscribe.

“Clearly, and by its own admission, the FA needs to address some structural issues that are no secret, as well as create a focus that means they can improve in their key areas of responsibility – the national teams, coach development and grassroots investment.

“However, the Premier League is a crucial part of the association of interests that engage and we have a duty to constructively engage with and support the processes already under way aimed at creating an organisation that can represent the best of English football at every level.”This admission by the Premier League boss indicates positivity in the FA camp and English football can look to a brighter future with less scandalous decisions from FA.

Meanwhile, introducing goal-line technology is a step forward by FA and other leagues may soon follow suit, if it turns out to be a success. Are we staring at a revolution in football or will it turn out to be just rice in the FA pan??

Thoughts and suggestions regarding technology in football will be welcomed.