Dermot Gallagher, a former Premier League referee, has weighed in on some of the contentious decisions made during Newcastle United’s close victory over Brentford.
The Magpies needed a win over the Bees at home over the weekend, and they got it due to Callum Wilson’s penalty. Eddie Howe’s team had lost three of their first four games of the season, and a win was critical to turning the tide, especially with the Champions League campaign about to begin.
While Newcastle won, it wasn’t without controversy, with Brentford manager Thomas Frank believing he was entitled an apology for the penalty decision that resulted in the Magpies’ victory.
Brentford goalie Mark Flekken makes contact with Anthony Gordon on the byline, forcing the Magpies forward out of space and out of play.
“It’s not the ref who has given it, but the linesman, and he needs to be absolutely bang-on, 100% sure if you want to decide an even game between two teams that gave each other a fantastic game, in fact,” Frank added.
“That means VAR checked but couldn’t do anything because it wasn’t a clear and obvious failure.” I’m sure Howard Webb will apologize and say, ‘Sorry, we made a mistake.'”
Following the event, former referee Gallagher issued a statement to Sky Sports, saying, “The referee [Craig Pawson] did not think so.” It’s really fascinating since it took so long to give that it was evident it was given by the helper.
“From the assistant’s perspective, you can see that he thought the goalkeeper had put his leg in, and Gordon goes over it.” It all hinges on whether he believes the goalkeeper has him covered. The only certainty is that he will not catch the ball. If you split the referees, I believe some will give it and some will not.”
In the other contentious incident, Newcastle had a goal ruled out for Wilson’s apparent foul on Flekken, but Gallagher believes it was justified.
However, upon further examination, Gallagher believes it was the correct option.
“I initially thought the goalkeeper flapped at the ball, but Callum Wilson actually blocks his arm,” he continued. “It was in a good spot.”
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