Oh dear! Alvarez Izquierdo was let out of the proverbial "fridge" this weekend after being suspended for a month for some bad decisions in the game between Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao (see week 8). But he is likely to be slapped right back in it (probably under the pork sausages in the coldest section!) after his display in the match between Valladolid and Mallorca.

The Mallorca "utility man" (you know, the old faithful who looks after the training balls and brings in spare pairs of underwear in case the players need it during the game) was shown a red card for his protests, but he had a point. Valladolid's second goal was clearly scored with his hand by Vivar Dorado, but the third was even more scandalous.

The linesman was waving his flag furiously that Pedro León was offside, and the Mallorca defenders stopped as the winger crossed in. But Alvarez ignored everyone and allowed play to go on, and Goitom coolly stroked the ball in to the empty net. Even the striker was surprised though when the goal was allowed to stand, and although the Mallorca players should never have pulled up, the offside was very clear. It may not have made much difference the way the visitors were playing, but there are bound to be repercussions this week. (02.12.08)