Most sports fans think it's sour grapes to complain about the refs. What about when your team wins? Is it more acceptable to complain? Perhaps, but it's still generally frowned upon. The logic is that referees only impact a game to a small degree. A good team can overcome an opponent and inconsistent refs.
I disagree. In sports like hockey, basketball, football, and soccer, the refs largely influence the outcome. Just last night, with the Red Wings leading 2-0 in the 2nd period, Johan Franzen scored the apparent third goal for the Wings. The goal was immediately waved off by the referee, who claimed Holmstrom interfered with the goalie. Judge for yourself:
There's no doubt that the Wings lose more goals to "goalie interference" than any other team. By far. And it all has to do with Tomas Holmstrom. Opposing coaches must needle the referees all game long. Who can blame them? The tactic works. Granted I'm a homer about Homer, but I still have a difficult time seeing how he does things differently than any other forward. Every team parks a big body in front of the goalie and causes havoc. It's possible that Homer is just better than most. But the refs have it out for him. I'm utterly convinced.
After the disallowed goal, Colorado seemed rejuvenated. They quickly scored twice, tying the game. Thankfully for the Wings, Lidstrom scored the winner in the 3rd. Yet, it's my belief that the disallowed Franzen goal still greatly influenced the game. Falling behind 3-0 is pretty demoralizing. By keeping it 2-0, the crowd roared to life, and the Avs played with more purpose. And the decision to keep the game 2-0 was entirely on the ref's shoulders. If the league opts to give him that kind of power, that's fine. But I reserve the right to complain - guilt-free. They do impact that game. They do influence outcome. They do make mistakes.
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