Football News : FA reiterates desire for goal-line technology

The Football Association has stressed its desire to see goal-line technology introduced as soon as possible following Chelsea's 'ghost goal' against Tottenham in the FA Cup semi-final.

GettyImagesDid Juan Mata's shot cross the line after all?

Chelsea were awarded a goal by referee Martin Atkinson but television replays suggested Juan Mata's shot had not crossed the line.

FIFA are to start final tests on two goal-line technology systems later this
month and a meeting on the International FA Board (IFAB) on July 2 will decide
whether to give the green light to either or both systems.

The FA, who have one of the eight votes on IFAB, have supported goal-line
technology for years and are hopeful it will be brought in at July's meeting.

An FA statement said: "The FA has led the calls at IFAB for the introduction
of goal-line technology for over a decade, and we reiterate our desire to see it
introduced as soon as possible. No other single body has called as strongly for
its introduction as the FA.

"The FA is not responsible for the introduction of goal-line technology in
isolation and awaits the outcome of the next IFAB meeting on July 2.''

The systems being tested are camera-based one developed by Hawk-Eye, the
British company bought out by Sony last year, and GoalRef - a German-Danish firm
who have a chip in the ball which is monitored by magnetic fields in the goal.

A FIFA spokesman said: "The latest planning meeting for test phase two was
held on Friday, and the second phase of tests will commence before end of April,
and will continue throughout May.''