"he was gradually losing control with each decision that went against him. Numerous unsuccessful protestations to the referee when he felt he'd been fouled only served to turn up the noise." This comes from The Times report on Swansea v. Manchester United, and anyone who read that report may notice that I've omitted the referee's name. It was none other than Jon Moss, whose performance in our opening game was roundly criticised (at least by Palace supporters!), and the player involved on this occasion was Marcus Rashford.

I didn't see a single moment of the Swansea match, so I can't comment. But it got me wondering: Is Moss genuinely - and consistently - guilty of failing to give adequate protection to skilful players? Or is he just generally incompetent? Is he any worse than other Premiership referees in this particular area?

Moss has an established record for failing to protect skilful players and has allowed thuggish defenders to risk injuring Wilf on a number of occasions now. I can't recall specific examples of anything else just now but on this issue at least, yes, he is not competent and is a danger to (certain) players.

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The Ferret
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