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HI Alistair, I don't think that is because Google is so Angry and its not letting you verify your site in search engine consule. There might be some technical issue or anyother possibel reason. such as, your server might be not responding to Google bot or Google is unable to connect with your server. In addtion to that if its download is not redirecting. There are other option available for you to verify the site, I am sure, you're femiliar with those but i  reckon to use via domain name provider. Moreover, before you submit site, make sure your site is fully secure. I hope this will help.