FA reiterate desire for introduction of goal-line technology

The decision to award a 49th-minute goal to Juan Mata, putting Chelsea 2-0 up, appeared to be wrong after video replays suggested the ball hadn't crossed the line when it was cleared away by Tottenham defender Benoit Assou-Ekotto. (PA)

The Football Association have stressed their desire to see goal-line technology introduced as soon as possible following Chelsea's 'ghost goal' against Tottenham in the FA Cup semi-final.

Chelsea were awarded a goal by referee Martin Atkinson but television replays showed Juan Mata's shot had clearly not crossed the line.

FIFA are to start final tests on two goal-line technology systems later this month and a meeting on the International FA Board (IFAB) on July 2 will decide whether to give the green light to either or both systems.

The FA, who have one of the eight votes on IFAB, have supported goal-line technology for years and are hopeful it will be brought in at July's meeting.

An FA statement said: "The FA has led the calls at IFAB for the introduction of goal-line technology for over a decade, and we reiterate our desire to see it introduced as soon as possible. No other single body has called as strongly for its introduction as the FA.

"The FA is not responsible for the introduction of goal-line technology in isolation and awaits the outcome of the next IFAB meeting on July 2."

The systems being tested are camera-based one developed by Hawk-Eye, the British company bought out by Sony last year, and GoalRef - a German-Danish firm who have a chip in the ball which is monitored by magnetic fields in the goal.

A FIFA spokesman said: "The latest planning meeting for test phase two was held on Friday, and the second phase of tests will commence before end of April, and will continue throughout May."

Britain's FIFA vice-president Jim Boyce has also been a long-time supporter of goal-line technology, and he believes FIFA president Sepp Blatter will push it through.

He told Sky Sports News: "The big problem was getting it right. Trying a system that was quick and precise and a decision could be made instantly. Sepp Blatter now I think is 100% behind it - not only him but I hope the whole international board will get this introduced and I hope FIFA will get this system that all the public want to see.

"There's so much money in sport now, so much prestige - it's got to be used.

"Hopefully now, after all these many years, it will be introduced - too late for some people but better late than never."

PA