Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker’s elbow strikes West Bromwich Albion defender Gareth McAuley in the face. What is the appropriate action by the referee?

In this space, I strive to comment on referees doing the right things: good fundamentals, creative game management and the like. There are times, however, when we can learn from mistakes by referees at the highest level.

FIFA Referee Andre Marriner provides a textbook example of playing advantage and coming back after the play to deal with misconduct.

Referee Phil Dowd took up a position on the goal line for a crucial last-second corner kick in an FA Cup tie betwteen Oldham and Everton. His choice of positions paid off handsomely.