I disagree that you need to be a referee to spot a bad one. I have seen enough referees to know who is controlling the game and who is controlled by it. I know enough when the ref has blown 5-10 calls a half giving the throw-in to the wrong team or awarding a corner when it should have been a goal kick. I know enough that when the 2nd to last defender is at midfield, the AR should not be at the 18. I know when a player has an intent to injure and the referee plays on. I know when a ref lets a wall form 4-5 yards in front of a free kick despite a coach and players asking for more. I have seen refs ignore AR flags on offsides when the player was 3 yards off. I could go on....you get the idea.
Would I be a perfect ref...doubtful. But I did referee basketball and did a very good job. I have read most of the rule book so have an idea of what to look for. With a son who is a ref I am sympathetic to them and NEVER yell at them during or after a game. I know the yelling never helps and won't get you the marginal call most of the time.
