Referee right to award Dutch opener

(GETTY IMAGES)

Netherlands' controversial first goal in Monday's 3-0 Group C victory over world champions Italy at Euro 2008 was correctly awarded despite many observers believing it was offside, organisers UEFA said on Tuesday.

UEFA general secretary David Taylor told a news conference the officials correctly interpreted the laws of the game when Ruud van Nistelrooy scored, stating Christian Panucci played him onside although the Italian was off the pitch at the time.

"The goal was correctly awarded... not many people, even in the game, and I include the players, know this interpretation (of Law 11)," Taylor said.