The Model of Consistency... or not

The 'two-footed tackle' has come under intense scrutiny in the football media over the past two weeks as the latest scurge to plague the beautiful game. Once it was the elbow, now it is the indignant and unnecessary lunge with studs showing that has raised concern. Whether it was Robbie Keane's sending off versus Birmingham City that reignited the debate, the talk has been growing louder in recent days, and yet Ricardo Carvalho still incredulously jumped in on Gabriel Agbonhlahor on Boxing Day in such a fashion that demanded an instant dismissal.

But, as pundits would point out, the consistency of referees in applying the laws of the game has been questionable. But surely it's a matter of common sense first and foremost that if you come in a) from behind b) with two feet off the ground and sometimes c) over the ball, you have to walk. Without a doubt. It's a universal absolute for the game.

So what excuses this then? The fact that it's not the Premiership? The fact that the referee is a woman? Neither. Usually when I'm at a game like this, things flash quickly by but I was convinced at the time he should have walked. It could have been passed off as slightly-drunken bias but when the post-match photos surface, and you're proved right, it's near unbelievable that Ms Rayner (looking straight at the incident) cannot apply the laws correctly.

Play continues, Stevenage goalkeeper Alan Julian clears out of play to allow Stuart Lewis treatment, but he's back to his feet before the ball goes out. Rushden attack, win a corner and wonder why Boro' players aren't amused. Cue brawl, and a booking for Julian (plus a Rushden player). So what should have been a straight-red for Rushden becomes a booking for the opposition goalkeeper... But be warned, it's usually the most inconsistent referees from the Blue Square Premier that earn a promotion come the end of the year.

Who says it's a British trait to reward failure?