Prem techs on offside system

TOP-FLIGHT GOES SEMI-AUTO THIS WEEKEND

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SEMI-AUTOMATED offside technology (SAOT) will finally make its Premier League debut this weekend. We take a closer look at the system.

What is the background to this?

A year ago yesterday, top-flight clubs voted unanimously to bring in semi-automated offside technology. The intention was to introduce it following one of the three international windows last autumn, but those deadlines came and went as the Premier League conducted further testing.

The system finally made its bow in the FA Cup fifth round, with the tie between Aston Villa and Cardiff on February 28 the first to use it.

It was further tested in three of the four quarter-final ties, before the Premier League confirmed on April 1 that it would be used in its competition from April 12.

Why is it being brought in?