The goal-line technology 'debate' is no longer needed after even Sepp Blatter conceded it had to be introduced. But its new year introduction will have come too late for Everton striker Victor Anichebe, denied a clear goal against Newcastle United in Monday night's 2-2 Premier League draw.
Anichebe's header was tipped onto the underside of the crossbar by Magpies goalkeeper Steve Harper, only the ball crossed the line.
Anichebe's header is about to cross the line, but the officials remained unmoved
Mike WIlliamson hacked the ball clear but linesman Ceri Richards, standing in in line with the goal-line, failed to award the Toffees a 2-1 lead.
Anichebe did go on to score via a fantastic turn-and-shot in the 88th minute, but Demba Ba equalised for the second time to earn Newcastle a point at Goodison Park.
Hawk-Eye and GoalRef have been approved by the International Football Association Board, with one or both of the systems likely to be used at the start of the 2013-14 season. Although the Premier League do want to use it "as soon as practically possible".
England were beneficiaries of myopic officiating when John Terry hooked Marko Devic's looping shot clear to retain the Three Lions' Lead in their final Euro 2012 group match. Only the co-hosts should have been awarded an equaliser.
John Terry's clearance should have been in vain, but preserved England's clean sheet
Here are some more goal-line howlers by officials...
