The persistent holding annoys me too. I have sent an email to the FA asking them the following question. No doubt they will ignore it, but you never know.
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Good morning, I have watched football for many years and have noticed that the amount of foul play from defenders in the penalty box towards attacking players is getting worse and most of the time referees do not seem to upholding the laws of the game. The evidence suggests that referees are turning a blind eye to the persistent pushing, pulling and holding of attacking players that takes place on every corner/free kick on the edge of the box.
When are referees going to start implementing the laws of the game? Football is fast becoming a sterile and highly defence oriented sport and its not helped by referees continually favouring the defending team on set pieces.
I look forward to hearing from you.
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