The fact that the standard of refereeing in fourth-tier matches is causing controversy is mentioned not only by fans, but also by footballers, officials and board members of individual clubs. There have been numerous occasions when referees awarded controversial penalties, called offside positions or deliberate fouls, thereby influencing match results. Filming matches could be a way to deal with dishonest referees. Recording matches could also become a licensing requirement for fourth-tier clubs.
“If we were to film matches in order to check the referees’ work, three cameras would need to be installed. Two at the height of the penalty areas of both teams, and a third monitoring the center of the pitch. One camera would not show everything,” comments on the idea of recording matches Jan Woch, president of BKS Bobrzanie Bolesławiec. “It would also be necessary to consider who would cover the costs associated with recording matches. Hiring three camera operators is expensive. If it were financed by the PZPN, I would support it. But if the club were expected to do it, the costs would have to be calculated and the financial outcome assessed,” he adds.
The idea of recording matches has its supporters and opponents. Most fans view the proposal negatively. “I think the idea would make sense if it took place at all clubs and the OZPNs had some influence over it—for example, the ability to revoke a player’s punishment or penalize referees,” says Krzysztof Kowacki, a fan and football coach. “There is currently a shortage of referees, and this idea will contribute nothing. There will be more fuss than it is worth. Referees should be paid appropriately. Recording matches has no future and will die a natural death,” Kownacki concludes.
The idea of recording fourth-tier matches is currently still at the discussion stage. Nevertheless, it has already been supported by the following clubs: Prochowiczanka Prochowice, Motobi Kąty Wrocławskie and Lechia Dzierżoniów. It is also supported by the Lower Silesian football website.
(MZ information)