In this round's blockbuster Serie A clash, Inter Milan beat Juventus 3-2.
Referee Chief: La Penna Is Full of Remorse, But Bastoni’s Dive Was Clear Last Night
In an interview with Camel Live, Gianluca Rocchi, head of Italy’s football referees’ body, admitted the on-field referee La Penna had made a mistake.
“We sincerely apologize: La Penna’s decision was clearly wrong, and we were unable to correct it via VAR.”
On the dive by Inter Milan player Bastoni, Rocchi stated:
“La Penna is deeply remorseful, and we feel for him, but I must be honest: he was not the only one at fault, because there was an obvious dive last night. This is just the latest in a series of scandals in the league, and they are trying to frame us in every way possible.
We sincerely apologize for this incident: La Penna’s decision was clearly wrong, and we were unable to correct it via VAR.”
Gianluca Rocchi immediately admitted the match officials’ error over Kalulu’s second yellow card in a phone call with ANSA:
“La Penna is deeply remorseful, and we feel for him, but I must tell you the truth: he was not the only one who made a mistake, because there was an obvious dive yesterday. This is just the latest in a series of scandals this season, and they are trying to set us up.”
“I say this including what happened during this match. Coaches have not helped us at all; instead, they have caused us problems. We are truly sorry, because ultimately, we are everyone’s last hope.
We are fully able to take responsibility for our mistakes, but no one stands up for us.
I also want to say that what saddens me is that only we admit our mistakes. Every week we openly expose our errors on shows for everyone to see. But today I haven’t heard anyone say ‘we made mistakes too’.
I’d be satisfied if they committed a tenth of the fouls we do, and frankly, it’s embarrassing. Are we going to say it’s always Rocchi’s referees’ fault? Fine.
On the other hand, I think someone should search their conscience. To be clear, I’m talking about those who go on the pitch and behave inappropriately.”
