Column: Seven deadly sins - The ref errors which have cost the Owls

In recent months, I think we can all agree that Wednesday have been the victim of poor officiating.
Barry BannanBarry Bannan
Barry Bannan

There is no conspiracy against the Owls - or any club for that matter - but bad refereeing decisions have robbed them of the services of key players and points this term.

It is got to the point where ex-referees’ boss and Sheffield-based Keith Hackett has recommended that head coach Carlos Carvalhal and company should compile a video dossier and take it to Professional Game Match Officials following the latest Fernando Forestieri “diving” storm.

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Well, I thought I would save the club some time and flag up the controversial incidents:

1) Forestieri’s dismissal at Preston - The skilful striker was harshly cautioned for diving before being penalised for a deliberate handball as the Owls slipped to their first defeat in 2016.

2) Kieren Lee’s non penalty against QPR - With the scores tied at 1-1, the midfielder appeared to be brought down by R’s defender Grant Hall. There was definite contact, but fourth official Graham Salisbury, who replaced the injured Andy Davies, ignored the Owls’ protests.

3) Forestieri’s red at Hull - The former Watford man was sent off for the second time in a week. He was given his marching orders late on by referee Tim Robinson after picking up a contentious second yellow card for simulation. Robinson was heavily criticised after making the call.

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4) Michael Turner’s disallowed goal against Rotherham - The big defender deflected in Aiden McGeady’s long range shot. Referee Chris Kavanagh signalled for a goal but the Millers protested and Kavanagh chalked it off for offside. Turner was level with the last defender. It should have stood.

5) Barry Bannan’s dismissal at Nottingham Forest - A debatable red. There have been worse tackles since which have not yielded a similar punishment. Owls’ appeal against the decision was rejected by an FA regulatory commission.

6) Forestieri’s booking at home to MK Dons - Owls’ top-scorer was cautioned again for diving. Was a meaty challenge by Kyle McFadzean, who got the ball, but was never a dive. Further harms Forestieri’s reputation. Is becoming a marked man with referees.

7) Forestieri’s penalty appeal turned down - Carl Baker upended the little forward in the penalty area. TV replays suggest Baker took plenty of the man and none of the ball.