FIFA plans to test goalline technology in live matches next month, football's governing body confirmed on Friday.
Hawk-Eye system to be used in Hampshire FA Senior Cup final
FIFA plans to test goalline technology in live matches next month, football's governing body confirmed on Friday.
The organisation says the Hawk-Eye system will be used in the Hampshire FA Senior Cup Final between Eastleigh FC and AFC Totton on May 16th, as well as a second fixture which is yet to be confirmed.
The other system being considered by the International Football Association Board, the game's rule-making body, is GoalRef. That will be used either in two matches in Denmark's top league or in one league match and an international exhibition.
IFAB is set to make a final decision on whether to allow the use of goalline technology at a meeting on July 2nd.
A series of lab and training ground tests will also be carried out on the systems, designed to help match officials decide whether or not a ball has crossed the line after a raft of controversies in recent years.
While the Hawk-Eye system, already used in tennis and cricket, will be tested during the Hampshire Cup final, being played at Southampton's St Mary's stadium, match officials will have to rely on their eyes should a controversial goalline incident occur.
Observer
A FIFA statement said: "Only the EMPA observer in the stadium will have access to the goalline technology (GLT) system readings, and the system will NOT be utilised by the match officials."
The Football Association has played a part in pushing for the technology.
An FA statement said: "The FA has been a leading proponent of goal-line technology for many years and has continued to press for its introduction once further independent testing is complete later this year, so that anyone wishing to introduce the technology is able to do so at the earliest possible opportunity."
Hampshire FA chief executive Neil Cassar said: "We are delighted to be working with IFAB and FIFA on the testing of goal-line technology and fully support the initiative.
"Whilst the system will not be utilised by the match officials, it is particularly pleasing that the Hampshire FA Senior Cup Final has been selected as the live match for testing which will be the first of its kind."
