Originally Posted by
kevkojak
Understood, but in this "soft touch" modern game, where the letter of the law is followed, it's a key factor. I'm not talking about diving without any contact whatsoever - that's cheating and should be punished in the most severe ways - I just mean over-egging the challenge. Once upon a time a ref would have laughed at some of these theatrics and told them to get their arse up and back in the game. These days a raised arm, a late foot, a toe off-side and it's advantage played and cards out.
Jack Grealish. Talented player, fast and accurate, but the most important string to his bow is the ability to draw a foul. Most fouled played in the Premier League 2 years running. Valued at £100,000,000. Enough said.
Sterlings foul might or might not have been a penalty last night, but there was definitely contact (not at his feet - looked like his calf or his thigh depending which angle you view). The ref was yards away, clear view, called a penalty without even needing his other officials. Contact in the box, what else can you do?