By Andrew Warshaw
May 24 – Goal-line technology is to be tested at England’s friendly against Belgium at Wembley Stadium on June 2, the clearest sign to date that football’s lawmakers are serious about implementing it worldwide.
The Hawk-Eye system used in tennis and cricket will be installed at the national stadium for Roy Hodgson’s first home game as England manager.
FIFA have made it clear, however, that of there are any controversial incidents in terms of the ball crossing the line, only the Swiss scientists monitoring the system will know the results and the referee will not be informed.
If the tests are successful, it is likely the go-ahead for goal-line technology will be given at a special meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB) in Kiev on July 2, with probable implementation by the start of the 2013-2014 league season.
The Wembley game will be the final live test for the camera-based Hawk-Eye system that was also used during a minor league cup final at Southampton’s St Mary’s Stadium on May 16.
A rival system, GoalRef, that uses magnetic sensors to track the ball, is being tested in the Danish Super League.
All the tests are being monitored by officials from the Swiss testing laboratory, EMPA, with both projects standing a chance of being approved.
The English Football Association has long been spearheading the drive for goal-line technology, not least after a series of dodgy, decisive decisions.
“Such tests could lead to the International Football Association Board approving the introduction of GLT at its special meeting at the beginning of July,” FIFA said in a statement without, of course, making reference to the fact that UEFA boss Michel Platini is steadfastly against any scientific aids for officials.
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