Howard Webb matches

There is a reason why Howard Webb Officiaited the World Cup Finals in 2012. Today the Howard Webb that got him that position came out.

One misunderstanding
There was one call in the entire first half that he was not in the right position to make the correct decision, and for that he didn't. 34th minute Mr. Webb whistled for a foul on Italy's Cassano on top of Croatia's Penalty Arc going out. With Mr. Webb being in front of the play and not at an angle couldn't see that two Croatian defenders collided and were not touched by Cassano. The attack looked very promising for Italy, and as a referee you never want to break up or create a promising attack from your mistake.

Greatness
Now time to give this man some credit. Howard Webb officiaited tonight with a purpose to prove why he is arguably the best referee in Europe if not the World. Foul selection and recognition was remarkable. Positioning, sprinting, reading the match to find the best position was outstanding. Communication with players, controling emotions, awareness of who was already sitting on yellow cards, the list goes on, it was just Great. When Croatia's Modric was whistled for a second consecutive hand ball, Webb could have shown him a yellow card. Knowing that Modric is a vital memeber for Croatia's hope to qualify to the next round, he managed the situation rightfully so. The hand ball although having some intent was not breaking up any attack and a yellow card would have knocked Modric out of their next clash against defending champions Spain. World Class officiating.

More Greatness
Once you obtain the level of officiating that Mr. Webb has it's easy to become complaced. Not sprint when it's really needed, or take for granted certain match situations when you should be extremly focused anticipating anything. I don't believe Howard Webb has been at his best since the 2012 World Cup. However this was not the case today, and yes he was Great and everywhere. Got deep every time he needed too. Sprinted at every counter attack to get to the right position to make the correct decision. On the foul that gave Italy their goal, his efforts to get down there was simply incredible. 100% work ethic, and determination to be the best.

Best Yet...
To me this was the best overall performance of any official in the 2014 Euros. The game seemed simple because Howard Webb made it simple. He used all his tools to facilitate this game and give both teams the most of their abilities to win the match. World Class performance from a World Cup Finalist Referee.