As the ridiculous decision to name David Moyes shows, referees and their rules (sorry, the law) leave them untouched by what the match means.
Moyes’ booking was embarrassing (Image: Getty Images)
If you take the joy out of a game, there’s nothing left. That’s why it’s so embarrassing that manager David Moyes was booked for celebrating his 97th-minute equalizer.
Moyes ran onto the pitch – well, sort of shaking with pure joy – as Everton scored a dramatic second-half equalizer against Brighton. Officials begin to wonder if they really know what it means.
When did they lose their sense of fun? When did they lose their love for the game? When did soccer become a boring spreadsheet? Since when did soccer become wrapped up in stupid referee remarks?
That’s the point. Yes, depending on the letter of the law (whatever that means). But what about the glory of the game?
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I love David Moyes. I love his passion. I love what he represents. his standards. his principles. He gives a lot to any job. Too many managers don’t get involved. But he really cares what his fans think.
And Everton fans are some of the best in the business. It’s about 445 miles from their stadium to the Amex. Train travel can take up to 6 hours, including many transfers. I didn’t think it was the best match. And in the end they take something away.
That’s the joy of being a fan. If you’ve been there once, you’ll never lose it. Those stupid days of getting soaked in the away end with no roof. The team was quite dangerous. But I got something. That’s why Moïse celebrated.
That’s where the referees lost sight of it. Enzo Fernandes took off his shirt at Chelsea and probably expected a yellow card. He had just scored the incredible winning goal after coming from a 2-0 deficit with a side camera to win 3-2. I wish they hadn’t booked him. But unfortunately, we have come to expect it.
Beto celebrates last gasp leveler at Brighton (Image: Getty Images)
But with Mr. Moise. Come. This is unusual. Consider David Pleat’s infamous zig across the pitch when Luton beat Manchester City to retain in 1983. He would be considering permanent banishment! Pretty hasn’t changed. His love is still there. Same goes for Moishy.
What about the referee? Chris Kavanagh. Chris Kavanagh is the same VAR that Moyes criticized after the game three weeks ago.
The referee lost something when Liverpool forward Luis Diaz’s goal was ruled out at Tottenham in October 2023. VAR quickly discovered the shocking mistake. But rather than bring the play back to give away a goal, they decided it couldn’t be done. Play has resumed. That’s just nonsense.
Instead of righting the wrong, which every fan in the stadium would have accepted, they became workers. Common sense is not allowed. That’s what you’re against. That’s why they keep doing stupid, crazy killjoys like booking David Moyes.
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