It was dramatic. Deep into the sixth minute of injury time, England were awarded a penalty. They were a goal down to Norway, and there was no more than 90 seconds left in the game.
That was how the game between the English U19 women and Norway U19 women had played out. Everything seemed to be normal. Leah Williamson stepped up to take the penalty, and dispatched it into the back of the net. Referee Marija Kurtes blew the whistle. No goal. There were players in the box as the kick was being retaken.
The referee awarded an indirect free kick to Norway, as it was England who had infringed.
This is the reason why the football world is talking. The final 90 seconds of that game that was played on the 4th of April is to be replayed later today.
England U19 Women to replay c.3mins (and retake a penalty) of UEFA Championship match due to referee error! pic.twitter.com/TgQ2FUVdQK
— Leigh Moore (@Leigh_Moore) April 8, 2015
Why has this ruling been taken? According to the rules of the game, when an attacking player encroaches a penalty, and that penalty is scored, the kick is to be retaken.
@JacquiOatley @iparkysport Law 14 (PK). PK should have been retaken (as was converted), referee awarded indirect FK. pic.twitter.com/oSXEYsEiSV
— Dave Phillips (@lovefutebol) April 9, 2015
It's a dangerous precedent, but one UEFA felt was necessary to replay.
It could change who qualifies for the European Championships. Norway currently lead the group with 'two wins', while England are joint second with Switzerland with a win and a loss. Only one team is guaranteed to go through, while there is a best loser spot up for grabs.
That was the opening game of the qualifying tournament for both teams. Each have played another since, and should play their final game today as well as the rest of that opening game.
