Advertisement
Jorge Larrionda's failure to spot that Frank Lampard's shot had crossed the line during last year's England v Germany World Cup clash heightened the demand for goal-line technology. ©INPHO/Action Images/Peter Cziborra
Over the line?

FA chiefs: Goal-line technology could be ready by next season

Tests on nine different systems are currently entering their final phase and should be completed this year.

THE FA HAS reiterated its desire to install goal-line technology in Premier League grounds sooner rather than later, hinting that the systems could be in place as early as the start of next season.

But footballing chiefs have reassured supporters that they will not rush into a decision which will change the face of football.

With the game’s referees under increasing pressure to get split-second decisions right with no margin for error, the introduction of technological aids is now seen as a necessity.

The FA is currently trialling nine different computerised systems, including one provided by the creators of the pioneering “Hawk-eye” technology used in tennis.

Speaking to the BBC, general secretary Alex Horne confirmed that the tests are now entering their final phase and that a final decision would be made in the near future.

“It’s possible we could see (goal-line technology) in the Premier League as early as 2012-13,” Horne said.

Whether there is enough time for the technology to be bought, paid for and put into any league or competition for next season, I’m not sure.

It would be really tight – but it might be possible for next season.

Promising start for Ireland at Golf World Cup

Henry Shefflin facing six months on the sidelines