Stanchions, crossbars and goal lines: Ukraine’s ghost goal plus other terrible decisions

Once again football has sparked a debate about goal-line technology, with Ukraine were denied a goal against England despite the ball appearing to cross the line. John Terry hooked clear Marko Devic's shot on the line, but the goal-line official didn't flag for a goal. If you thought that was unlucky, then have a look at these controversial decisions.

Clive Allen

Playing for Crystal Palace against Coventry in 1980, the Tottenham coach saw his free-kick ruled out, much to manager Terry Venables' disgust.

Alan Hudson
In 1970, Chelsea midfielder Hudson blasted his 20-yard effort into the side netting during a First Division match against Ipswich, hitting the stanchion on the way back out. The goal was given and the Blues won 2-1.

Christian Tiffert
In January 2010, the midfielder benefitted from a horrific decision while playing for Duisburg as it was decided that his shot had crossed the line despite it clearly not.

Freddie Sears
Then Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock was furious with referee Rob Shoebridge for disallowing Freddie Sears' effort as his side lost 1-0 to Bristol City in 2009.

Reading
Watford were denied a win against Reading in 2008 when linesman Nigel Bannister flagged for a goal instead of a corner after John Eustace challenged Reading's Noel Hunt, with referee Stuart Attwell awarding it, putting the Royals 1-0 in front after 13 minutes. Watford managed to get 2-1 ahead and looked to be heading for all three points until Stephen Hunt scored a penalty to level things.

Juan Mata
Ultimately it did not matter as Chelsea thrashed Spurs 5-1, though Tottenham still complained when the Spain winger's goal was judged to have crossed the line when it did not. Martin Atkinson's decision to award the goal made it 2-0 and although Gareth Bale pulled one back, Tottenham crashed out of the FA Cup semi final in April.