Former goalkeeper of the USSR national team and Spartak Anzor Kavazashvili shared insights on the career trajectory of referee Vitaly Meshkov, who made a notable error in the Spartak versus Ural match during the red and white period. It is important to note that the official was not scheduled for the 19th week of the Russian Premier League (RPL).
An umpire who commits a serious misjudgment should face consequences. For Spartak, Meshkov’s error carried decisive weight. He is likely to be suspended for the remainder of the season, though this does not signal the end of his refereeing career. A comeback is possible, and the RPL may once again assign him to key matches after a period away. It remains uncertain whether Meshkov’s error was a technical lapse or a deliberate act. The appropriate authorities are expected to determine the situation and take the necessary steps, according to Kavazashvili’s assessment about the league’s handling of the incident.
During the 18th round clash between Spartak and Ural, Meshkov inadvertently ruled out a goal scored by the red-and-whites. The decision appeared to hinge on an off-ball incident involving Muscovite attacker and Ural’s goalkeeper Ilya Pomazun, which briefly involved a collision with a teammate, casting doubt on the call.
The Spartak versus Ural match concluded in a 2-2 draw.
After completing 18 rounds, Spartak sits in second place, eight points behind Zenit, underscoring the competitive landscape of the season.
Veteran player Alexander Mostovoy had previously suggested that Spartak could challenge Zenit for the title and compete for the championship in the Russian Premier League, highlighting the potential strength of the squad alongside the ongoing campaign and the way the league unfolds.