The Manchester United versus Newcastle match was unusual for more than the score. With three arguable penalties disallowed and a goal given that barely crossed the line, the issues of referee fallibility and video replays returned.

In cricket, the human element of umpiring is seen as part of the fabric of the game. Yet videos determine run-outs; whether a catch carried; or a ball crossed the boundary rope.

Rugby league was first to use video evidence to confirm a try and union followed. ‘Hawkeye’ decides service line calls in tennis and now line call challenges by players. It’s also on trial for goal line decisions in football.

The value of staying in the Premier League has been estimated at £30-£50 million. Irrespective of the surrounding controversy, Sheffield United were only relegated on goal difference last season. The value of winning the Premier League or Champions League is priceless.

So how far should we go to remove human error? Supporters see pushing in the penalty area every match. Why do defenders and batsmen get the benefit of the doubt? How many penalties would be awarded on video evidence? How many more batsmen would be given out lbw if technology was used for every appeal? And how long would all sports matches take if video evidence took over whenever requested?

Referees are human and assumed to be above bias. As the pressure on them grows, there may be a suspicion that the fourth official is being consulted, including for one recent sending off.

Inconsistency of decisions is, however, a growing irritation. Some supporters suggest that the top teams receive favourable bias on key decisions. Also, at the start of this season, clubs were told that the ‘two-footed tackle’ would receive an automatic red card. Managers want their players to be protected but not all culprits have been sent off. Some referees give more cards or penalties than others.

Even neutral observers might have been puzzled by two of the penalty decisions last Saturday. There have been many penalty and other important decisions questioned this season. One goal can be worth two points. Even without relegation, positions in the table are worth millions.

The questions won’t stop and the clamour for videos won’t go away. Referees don’t like trial by replay, so greater consistency must be sought. The fourth official may have a growing and significant role to play in future.

What do you think? Have your say.