Moyes calls for goal-line technology

Everton boss David Moyes called for the introduction of goal-line technology after seeing his side denied a goal against Aston Villa.

Moyes’ side drew 2-2 against Villa after Leighton Baines scored a late penalty, but Moyes believes the result could have been even better for his side had a Jermaine Beckford effort been paid a goal.

Beckford’s shot looked very close to crossing the goal-line after striking the crossbar, and Moyes said such important decisions should not be left to chance.

“The angle the ball came back off the bar made me think it must be close,” Moyes said.

“It is a hard call for the referee and the linesman but I thought they would have picked up on the angle of the ball coming off the crossbar.”

“It was a double whammy because within 10 seconds were 2-1 down – but that was down to us, not the referee.”

“It was a poor decision – that is why we have been championing for goalline technology.”

Everton are in the midst of an injury crisis with first-choice players Tim Cahill, Jack Rodwell, Marouane Fellaini, Louis Saha and Mikel Arteta all unavailable for Saturday’s match.

“I don’t think in my time I’ve ever been so low on numbers,” Moyes said.

“With the team we had out today against a side like that – I know they are near the bottom but they have got three England internationals – the way we played, the chances we missed, we were unlucky not to win the game.”

Villa remain just two points clear of the relegation zone with just one win from their last seven games.

But manager Gerard Houllier was optimistic about their fortunes and insisted they can retain their place in the top flight next season.

“I think the boys were fantastic today in the fact that they fought hard. They had a real will to win and that’s why we showed character,? Houllier said.

“We know we’re not in the best position at the moment, but I think we won the second half and we have to remember that we can fight, defend and score goals.”

“It is difficult to single out one player more than another because I thought that everybody fought extremely hard and showed they wanted to give their best for the team.”

“The players are very keen to finish in the best position and I’m confident that we can make it.”