Ex-PGMOL chief fumes as controversial Norwich City vs Southampton incident analysed
Jovon Makama’s winner for Norwich City against Southampton should not have stood as he handled the ball past Gavin Bazunu.
That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that he empathises with referee James Bell as he was unable to see that the Canaries man had used his hand to score.
Norwich recently appointed Philippe Clement as their new manager after a dismal start to the season under Liam Manning.
The Belgian boss has been able to turn their form around, despite Norwich being heavily tipped for relegation, with one loss in four games prior to Saturday’s (13 December) clash against Southampton.
Tonda Eckert has recently taken charge of Southampton and has also improved them since his appointment, but his side were defeated 2-1 at Carrow Road as the hosts’ winner was controversially allowed to stand.
Makama handled it in for Norwich’s winner vs Southampton
21-year-old forward Makama had put Norwich into the lead just after half-time before Ryan Manning levelled the scores again just before the hour mark.
The Canaries immediately pushed to go ahead once more and it was Makama at the double in the 61st minute as he got onto the end of Harry Darling’s knock-down from Jacob Wright’s cross and used his hand to score past Bazunu.
Numerous Saints defenders complained to the assistant referee and main official Bell, but their grievances fell on deaf ears as the goal was allowed to stand.
Hackett backs referee Bell but insists Southampton have ‘every right’ to complain
Norwich went on to win 2-1 to move two points away from Championship safety in 23rd, while the Saints’ promotion hopes took a blow with only their second loss in eight games.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, ex-PGMOL chief Hackett criticised the officials for allowing the goal to wrongfully stand, but also understood how they did not spot the cheeky offence.
He said: “No VAR and no chance for referee James Bell to see the action by the scorer.
“The Norwich City number 24 used his left hand to make contact with the ball. Southampton have every right to feel aggrieved.
“This goal should have been ruled out.”