Don't know whether I should get involved in this or not. Well, what the hell!
Don't watch football - got to be one of the most boring games around. I remember a teacher at school saying 'football is for pansies'. Didn't know what this post was about, so googled 'gray keys referee' and found the story.
To some extent I agree with Lizzie, but I also agree, to some degree, with Yak. During the very few times I have watched football on tv I have heard many rude comments against male referees and linesmen. And how was it viewed? They were 'off the cuff' comments and no one batted an eyelid at them. So, to this incident... linesman made a mistake, commentators weren't happy, made some comments - BIG DEAL. The only thing I would say is that the commentators should be setting a good example be it male or female referees/linesmen; yes, they can express their views as to good or bad decisions, but do it in a more professional manner.
Snooker has a female referee. She is highly respected amongst everyone in the snooker community. Agreed, snooker refereeing is easier as the game is slower and you have time to think before making a decision. But even then, they occasionally make the wrong decision. JV et al may say it was a poor decision, but it's left at that!
I either am currently or have been in the past a referee/umpire in 4 different sports, including football. And there's times when I wonder why we bother! If they can't play the game to the rules, then let them carry on and make a farce of it.
My final thoughts... if you're going to cheat (as all footballers do) so as to have to employ referees and linesmen then remember, a referee is ALWAYS right, even when they're wrong.