Many interesting items were discussed today. Mr.Jaap Uilenberg showed film clips of incidents concerning advantage, the illegal use of elbows and hands, communication between the officials and advantage. It was worthwhile watching how these incidents which were taken from Euro 2008 were interpreted by the top European referees. Mistakes were made and Mr.Uilenberg was clear about the necessity of cooperation and that proper communication is kept between the officials. If this had been so mistakes such as the reversal of a red card would have been avoided.

Positioning was another important point discussed. Mr. Uilenberg said that some serious incidents such as penalties were missed because the referee was in the wrong position. He recommended that a referee should go wide to evaluate incidents in the penalty area when he could have a better view. It was useless following play from behind players as then the referee’s view is blocked.

Seminar Day 2 Photos. Mr. Uilenberg giving a speech to Maltese Referees.

All Photo's taken by  Lous Micallef (MFA)

Advantage – when should this be awarded? Mr.Uilenberg pointed out that it was dangerous to award advantage in the centre of the field when no clear advantage could ensue as this could easily lead to another more dangerous foul. He also spoke about never allowing advantage when the foul warranted a red card or a second yellow card.

The referees were divided into three workshops led by Esther Azzopardi, Paul Caruana and Mariano Debono