The Linesmen Shuffle
Graham Poll, erstwhile referee who handed out three yellow cards to the same player at the world cup – and who happens to be an astute writer – called the movement of a linesman an absurd shuffle. And it is very amusing. The linesman must track the last defender or the last striker and change direction when the player does, shifting his flag so that it always faces the field. It is a funny dance to watch, especially when an attacker tries various runs or a defender lunges forward in an offside trap.
The linesman develops a strange relationship with the last defender because he is always watching him (or her.) He notes the player’s good plays and foibles, all without any real communication other than a raised hand by the defender or a whiny complaint from the attacker.
Anyway, I caught this shuffle on camera (please forgive the formatting) at the North Korea v Portugal game. One of the most exhilirating experiences of my life. South Africa was my home of three years and it feels great to be back. A dream come true.
–Deji Olukotun
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