Games should not be decided by the referee

Put your hand down and watch the game asshole.

I am still stewing over the abysmal performance of the ref. The US came out and gave Italy all they could handle but the most important factor was the blindingly incompetent head official. He pulled three red cards in the game; only one of which was deserved. When the Azzurri's De Rossi elbowed Brian McBride in the face and drew blood, well that is worthy of an ejection. Pablo Mastroeni's challenge was a late tackle and totally undeserving of being sent off. The same goes for Eddie Pope. In the end, the US and Italy tied, giving us a chance to advance if we beat Ghana and Italy gets the better of the Czechs. But damn it, we were sitting pretty 11-10 and pushing the Italian defense. Then the wheels came off. Most disturbing is the fact that this particular ref has been suspended for "irregularities" before. Why FIFA allowed him to serve is a mystery. After watching the post-game report and have none other that Georgio Chinaglia (perhaps the greatest Italian player ever) lay into the horrible officiating, you know it was bad.

We need a big win on the 22nd. We are so close...