The Rational RefBehold the four pillars of Dogso
The factors that make up the referee's case when considering Denial of an Obvious Goal-Scoring Opportunity
The problem with obvious goal-scoring opportunities is that no one agrees exactly how obvious they are.
To some, a delicious chance at goal that even "my granny could put away" may not be as tasty to others of a different ability, class or generation.
Even top professionals like Manchester City forward Edin Dzeko can fluff obvious chances, like the one he spurned against Stoke City last weekend when the Bosnian's legs got in a tangle.
Lest we forget, there is a good reason why the triple punishment is in place
In last week's Champions League matches, there were two red cards due to circumstances that referees call "Dogso" - Denial of an Obvious Goal-Scoring Opportunity.
Manchester City defender Martin Demichelis brought down Barcelona's Lionel Messi on the edge of the penalty area, while Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny clipped Bayern Munich's Arjen Robben inside the goal area.
Both attacking players were clear on goal and the rules state if they are fouled then the players making the offence are sent off for Dogso.
Curiously, the rules do not exactly define Dogso. Instead, referees are advised to consider the following four factors:
Referees must consider the distance between the offence and the goal; the likelihood of keeping or gaining control of the ball; the direction of play; and the location and number of defenders.