A helpless Scot

General calls

His style is typical of Scotsmen, it closely resembles Collum's style. When a player falls in a duel, it might be a foul or a dive. But McLean has to make clear signals which indicate why he let the game go on. He avoided talking too much to the players. Most of the cards were ok, but at least the first against Mainz was too harsh. Normally, I am not a fan of supporters who always react on a referee's decision which goes against their own team with a collective, wrathful cry..however, yesterday they were right. Many many minors in the midfield and no feeling for the situations. It was not enough for this match, Mr McLean.

Penalty (free kick) situations

There were three difficult situations that had to be solved by him, everything happened close to the Romanians' goal. At first, there was a handball situation which was well solved by McLean. There was a small movement of the hand to the ball, but nothing unnatural, moreover, the distance was very close (perhaps 1,5 m)..the second decision was when Mainz was in front of the goal and the striker suddenly fell. McLean decided no penalty and no red card again. After several replays one must say that it was right, although it was more likely a dive which could have been then cautioned. The third situation was the most obvious one, and McLean did not get it right. A clear foul in the 90.+5' minute by a Romanian who was already booked. Consequence? It must be a free-kick from 18 metres and a second yellow card. McLean had to be protected after the final whistle because Mainz was - justifiably - upset by McLean.