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Mark Clattenburg, the referee analyst for Nottingham Forest, has expressed criticism regarding the officiating during the recent match against Liverpool at the City Ground. Clattenburg highlighted an incident where he claims he was not permitted to enter the referees’ dressing room post-game to discuss the events with referee Paul Tierney. The controversy arose from a decision made by Tierney to restart play with the ball at the feet of Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, despite Forest having possession prior to a stoppage due to a head injury to Ibrahima Konate.
Clattenburg emphasized that according to International Football Association Board (Ifab) rules, the ball should have been returned to the team in possession when the game was stopped, which was Forest in this instance. However, Tierney’s decision led to Liverpool regaining possession and eventually scoring the winning goal through Darwin Nunez. Despite the controversy, Clattenburg noted that the decision did not directly result in the goal, as Forest briefly regained possession before Liverpool’s goal.
Following the match, scenes of fury unfolded at the City Ground as Forest players and staff confronted the match officials, with Forest coach Steven Reid even receiving a red card for remonstrating with Tierney. Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis was also reported to have pursued the officials, expressing his discontent with the decision-making. BBC Radio 5 live football reporter Rob Schofield described the atmosphere as “furious,” with Marinakis vocalizing his frustration over what he perceived as a lack of respect for the players.
The incident adds to a growing list of grievances for Forest, who have previously lodged complaints with the referees’ body, the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), over perceived injustices in past matches. Clattenburg highlighted the frustration within the club, emphasizing their hope for improved luck in future encounters.
The controversial decision made by referee Paul Tierney has sparked debate among former players and pundits. Alan Shearer, speaking on Match of the Day, criticized Tierney’s decision, labeling it a “big clanger.” Shearer argued that the ball should have been returned to Forest at the point where they had possession, rather than being given to the Liverpool goalkeeper, as it significantly altered the flow of the game.
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