Chelsea 2 - 3 Man Utd

Sunday 29^th October:

Chelsea 2 – 3 Manchester Utd

It seems nowadays every Man Utd game is woefully remembered for a refereeing performance instead of the football; sadly today’s game was no exception. Before entering the stadium I rubbished claims that another ‘Webb’ performance could be on the cards and I uttered these famous last words – ‘don’t worry, I rate Clattenburg as a referee’. However it was another dismal official performance similar to the 3-a-peice draw played out here last season.

I defend referees normally and sympathise with the fact that their job is a somewhat impossible task. However, like most football fans, I crave consistency from the officials. I do not expect the linesmen or ref to get every single decision spot on, however as a fan paying £59 for a ticket you would be forgiven for expecting Mark Clattenburg to get one or two right. Ivanovic saw red when he faintly clipped Ashley Young’s heels, a player who nearly entered Team GB’s Diving team at London twenty twelve. Although accidental I thought Clattenburg was right to send off the Chelsea number 2. Down to 10 men yet pressing forward and the game was still finely in the balance and I still felt the 3 points were there to be won. I was mad that Johnny Evans only saw yellow for his challenge as Torres went through on goal, then to the disgust of the home crowd it became apparent that is was a second yellow for El Nino. Down to 9 men and salt was about to be rubbed into the wounds, Clattenburg decided not to show Rooney a second yellow for a cynical fowl and then Hernandez tapped in an offside goal to end a day where my resilient love for football was sternly tested.

People have asked my opinion all week about the Mark Clattenburg saga. He had an absolute shocker and should never of sent Torres off. However I do not believe for one second that he would have been stupid enough to use racist language towards Mikel. Chelsea as a club need to be 100% sure before pursuing this allegation otherwise the club may embarrass itself, much to the delight of the ghastly media who wait for such an opportunity. I hope the situation is put behind us rapidly and look forward to some revenge on Wednesday night.