>>>>A dubious penalty in the last few seconds of stoppage time? Give me a break!
>>>>Should have gone to extension.
>>>
>>>I agree but for the reason of the call just follow the money. Which teams will generate the most viewers worldwide, Australia or Italy? When there is a tough call to make the ref will go with the team that will generate the most money going forward. It's always about the money.
>>
>>Do you think the referee made all the "money" calculations in a split second of deciding on penalty kick? Seems like one of those conspiracy theories <g>
>
>No, refereee receive orders from FIFA. FIFA make marketing and take money from commercials.
>If they do their job correct next time they will be not invited. Simple sellection. Now they gain free 20 days holiday, visiting top teams matchs and good payment

Referees do not receive orders from FIFA, other than their game assignments. The referees who are assigned to World Cup games are the best of the best of the best. They have been assessed over and over and have been judged the cream of the crop. They have to be fit enough to run up and down the field with some of the world's best athletes. As a referee myself (FAR less qualified), when you suggest they're just whores for hire, I take that as a personal offense. We may miss some calls but we're out there giving it our best. The exceptions are few and far between.

Best,

Mike