Ex-FIFA ref reacts to Everton ‘problem’ after Tarkowski controversy v Man United
James Tarkowski only had himself to blame for Man United’s opening goal against Everton in the Premier League Summer Series.
Ruben Amorim‘s side raced into the lead via Bruno Fernandes‘ third goal of the tournament on Sunday, 3 August, with goals from Iliman Ndiaye, Mason Mount, and an Ayden Heaven own goal sealing a 2-2 draw.
The 90 minutes at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium were filled with drama, not least Fernandes and Ndiaye clashing on the halfway line and both stars being issued yellow cards by the referee.
While many fans were expecting further punishment for the United captain, few could complain as David Moyes‘ side conceded an early penalty through Tarkowski before fighting for a comeback in America.
This article contains exclusive comments from ex-PGMOL chief, FIFA official and former professional referee Keith Hackett.
Everton concede frustrating penalty to Man United
After initially doing well to keep up with Amad Diallo, the centre-back eventually felt the need to drag the 21-year-old to the floor, giving away a spot-kick in the opening 20 minutes.
Of course, Tarkowski argued against the decision, but after 14 weeks on the sidelines, it became clear that the 32-year-old still needs more minutes under his belt before the new season kicks off.
While many Everton supporters on social media suggested that Amad had gone to ground far too easily, the referee’s decision has now been backed up by an experienced figure from the world of refereeing.
James Tarkowski to blame for Bruno Fernandes’ opener
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former referee said: “There is no doubt that when an attacking player, at the elite level of the game, feels contact in the box and they’ve lost the chance to score, they go down.
“This is typical. Then you have defenders who stick out their arms and legs, and do not defend in the way that they should. The defender has created a problem by holding his opponent.
“It doesn’t matter how much he has hold of – he’s using his hands and arms. Only goalkeepers use those. In England, you’d probably get nothing, but when you’re overseas in the States, you’ll get punished.
“It’s a penalty kick. Yes, there’s exaggeration, but that’s what we face in the modern game. Tarkowski needs to stop playing with his arms and hands and make a genuine attempt for the ball.”