Following this week's meeting between Keith Hackett - head of the Professional Game Match Officials Board (PGMOB) - and BBC tv and radio journalists regarding criticism of the refereeing standards on the beeb, we expected a reaction this weekend.
We got it. Mark Lawrenson virtually proposed marriage to Mike Riley during the early stages of the Man Utd v Arms Dealer's Son XI game yesterday. Then he was hoisted by his own petard as each of the assistant referees made appalling decisions costing United two certain goals. In the end, thanks to Rooney's brilliance, it was of no significance but we don't think that there will be much focus on dubious decisions in the weeks ahead on BBC.
If the BBC behaves, perhaps Ferguson, Redknapp and Allardyce will agree to be interviewed again... can't wait.
Additionally, although it is stating the obvious, Vidic and Larsson's goals would have been detected by utilising video technology. It is no surprise that Arsène Wenger's first reaction to the election of Michel Platini was to call for the use of such technology as his team has suffered the most this season.
A couple of related extra miscellaneous angles.
Firstly, the British bookmakers are petrified of a Man Utd, Chelsea and Arsenal televised treble this weekend. Mike Dean referees Gunners v Bolton.
Secondly, the shenanigans surrounding 4th place in the Premiership over the last two seasons (the food poisoning of Spurs players and Everton's demotion to allow Liverpool in) are a clear indication that the major leagues will not allow Platini to reduce the number of Champions League qualifiers in Spain, Italy and England. There is serious money involved here and, in UEFA, money talks. We can't imagine a time where the the Big 4 in England aren't selected for qualification.
