December 20, 2006
Reality of Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo is making headlines in England again. Unfortunately for him, it’s not quite the coverage he would like. A quick google news query turns up a mountain of articles declaring that Ronaldo is up to his cheating ways again. This time in reaction to statements made by Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate following their 2 - 1 defeat to Manchester United. “Our goalkeeper has done everything he can to get out of the way. There was clearly no contact, I did not think so at the time and when you see the replays there is nothing there,” said Southgate.Southgate was commenting on a questionable penalty kick awarded to Manchester United in the 19th minute. Louis Saha converted the penalty to put Man U up 1 - o against Boro. Middlesbrough later equalized in the 66th but was unable to secure the draw. Darren Fletcher headed home the 2 - 1 game winner two minutes later.
As In addition to the controversial penalty kick, Ronaldo was also awarded a free kick from just outside the area on a foul that Boro fans judged to be dishonest. Ronaldo’s free kick, while dangerous, was blocked by Middlesbrough keeper Mark Schwarzer. The post game feeding frenzy couldn’t be avoided, I guess, but I find it out of proportion to the events as they happened. The broadcast replay showed that there was no contact, but it also showed that there was no intent from Ronaldo to simulate. He simply stumbled when he tried to cut away from Schwarzer and toward the ball. Even the English commentator for Fox Soccer Channel saw it that way. Unfortunately, the referee saw it as contact and awarded the penalty. Clearly it was a bad call on his part. |
ked to comment on the penalty award, Sir Alex Ferguson said, “I thought it was a clear penalty to be honest with you.’’ After seeing the replay, he added. “He is trying to evade it, isn’t he? But would he have scored? I think he would have.”
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