Howard Webb, the referees’ chief, has defended the decision to disallow West Ham’s last-gasp equaliser against Arsenal on Sunday. The Hammers’ goal, which would have earned them a point, was chalked off by referee Anthony Taylor, and Webb has confirmed that the decision was correct.
The match at the London Stadium ended 2-1 in favour of the Gunners, with Bukayo Saka scoring the winning goal in the 87th minute. However, West Ham thought they had earned a point when Michail Antonio’s header was allowed to stand, only for it to be ruled out for a foul by the Hammers’ midfielder, Lucas Paquetá.
Background
According to AS, Webb has stated that the decision to disallow the goal was made after consulting with Taylor and other officials. The referees’ chief has insisted that the decision was not taken lightly and was made with the intention of upholding the laws of the game.
Reaction
Webb’s decision has been met with a mixed reaction from the football community, with some calling for greater clarity on the laws of the game. However, the referees’ chief has maintained that the decision was correct and that the laws of the game are in place to ensure a fair and safe environment for players.
What it means
The disallowed goal has significant implications for West Ham’s qualification hopes, with the Hammers now three points adrift of fourth-placed Manchester United. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s victory has propelled them into third place, just a point behind Manchester City in second.
Up next
West Ham travel to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Wednesday to face their north London rivals in the Premier League. Kick-off is at 8pm BST.
References
- AS
