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2. Martin Atkinson – Chelsea vs. Burnley (2015)
Another controversial officiating performance during a match involving Chelsea, this time Premier League ref Martin Atkinson came into the firing line for a horrendous showing in the Blues’ 1-1 draw with Burnley in February 2015.
Atkinson completely lost control of a foul-filled match, with both sides committing 9 offences, but somehow only receiving three cards between them. The biggest flashpoint was a stunning red card for Chelsea’s Nemanja Matic, who was dismissed after shoving Ashley Barnes after the Burnley striker had committed a high-studded, x-rated tackle on him.
Somehow Barnes escaped punishment, angering Chelsea fans who were already frustrated with Atkinson’s performance after he denied them two seemingly clear penalties – one for a hand-ball by Michael Kightly and one for a foul on striker Diego Costa by Jason Shackell.
Respected former referee Keith Hackett labelled Atkinson “incompetent” for his performance, while Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho was furious, stating that Atkinson’s officiating was inconsistent and made four important mistakes.
