The Magic of the FA Cup

Yes, its cliche time again! FA Cup third round weekend is one of the most anticipated in the football calendar, and with a good draw this weekend didn't disappoint.

Controversy was virtually non-existent on Saturday, with plenty of goals, excitement and surprises. On Sunday, however, the two games saw the officials thrust into the spotlight.

First off was League Two side Gillingham's encounter with Premier League Aston Villa. This was a terrific cup tie, with Gillingham equitting themselves very well, but eventually losing out to Villa. I thought Keith Stroud had a great game. There are theorists who suggest that the big sides get the rub of the green in these games, but I thought he refereed it fairly, used good man management, and kept control while not stifling the game.

The controversy has centred around the penalty which ultimately decided the game. I'm rather surprised at the amount of debate about it. Granted, Ashley Young was probably looking for it, but Adam Miller has made clear contact with him and bodychecked him, and Keith Stroud had a good view of this. I think anyone's instinctive reaction in his position would be to give a penalty, so I'm fully supporting his decision here. Stroud hasn't really had a good run in the Premier League yet but on this evidence I think he deserves a chance.

The second game of the day was Southampton against Manchester United. Mike Riley was in charge, and there were three incidents of note. The first two require little discussion. Danny Welbeck was offside for Manchester United's first goal - albeit pretty marginally; this isn't the worst decision ever but Simon Beck will be disappointed that he didn't flag. The red card to Patterson was correct for me - a tackle which endangered the safety of an opponent - even though he probably meant to play the ball. But a good decision from Mike Riley there.

Less good was the penalty he gave to Manchester United. While David McGoldrick jumps up as the free kick comes in, there is some doubt as to whether the ball hits his hand or the back of his head, never mind whether it was intentional. How sure was Mike Riley that it definitely hit his hand? I think he must have used some guesswork, and I don't like the idea of using guesswork on penalties, which are important decisions. If there are doubts, then its not a penalty. It was an honest decision I'm sure, but not a good one for me. At least Keith Stroud had a clear view of the contact for the penalty he gave in the early game.

Its a shame that the officials have taken centre-stage in Sunday's games, as it has slightly marred a great cup weekend. Nonetheless, controversy is part of football so I guess it all adds to the fun!