Spurs boss Ho wants 'more support and training' for WSL referees

Tottenham Women manager Ho criticised the penalty decision that cost his side a 2-1 derby loss to Arsenal, calling for better support and training for WSL referees.

Tottenham Women lost 2-1 to Arsenal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday, with Alessia Russo's penalty in the 56th minute proving decisive. The spot-kick was awarded after Cathinka Tandberg's clearance hit Ella Morris' outstretched hand following Lisa Baum's shot off the post.

Manager Martin Ho disputed the decision, arguing that under the laws of the game, an indirect free-kick rather than a penalty should have been awarded when the ball hits a hand after being played by a team-mate. He said referees had told managers at the start of the season that time and distance would be considered in such situations. "When that decides a game, it's frustrating, because it's not within the laws of the game," Ho said.

Ho acknowledged WSL referees face a difficult job but believes standards have deteriorated compared to last season. He called for more full-time officials, better training, and suggested elite referees should take charge of big matches. He also complained about inconsistent enforcement of other rules, citing two bookings for Spurs in the first half while Arsenal players went unpunished for shirt-pulling.