Ex-refs chief reacts to controversial Lisandro Martinez footage in Man United vs Newcastle
Anthony Taylor was right not to award a penalty in Newcastle United’s favour after an incident involving Man United’s Lisandro Martinez.
That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that there was not enough evidence to point to the spot despite a VAR check at Old Trafford.
Gary Neville was critical of Eddie Howe during another controversial incident on Friday, 26 December, as Aaron Ramsdale feigned injury to allow for the Magpies to install a tactical switch.
It was all in vain, though, as Patrick Dorgu volleyed home the only goal of the game in the 24th minute, sealing an important three points to move the Red Devils up to fifth in the Premier League table.
Howe’s side, of course, were pushing for an equaliser for the entire second half, and many thought they were going to be given a route from 12 yards after a handball appeal against Man United‘s No.6.
Anthony Taylor applauded as Lisandro Martinez escapes penalty
Martinez has recently returned from injury, and the Argentine was locked in a battle with Malick Thiaw when the ball struck his arm, before he then smashed clear.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider about why the handball was not awarded, the former referee said: “The referee has to judge if the action by the player is deliberate when deciding that an offence has taken place.
“Not every time the ball comes into contact is it an offence. There is sufficient doubt in this action not to award a penalty kick.”
It is one of those that will be heavily debated, especially by the travelling supporters, but the Magpies will have to wait for a fourth game to win again, next up against Burnley on Tuesday, 30 December.
Ruben Amorim could have thrown it all away vs Newcastle
Ruben Amorim has been under immense pressure for multiple things, and Gary Neville clearly believes that it could have increased had his substitutions gone wrong at Old Trafford.
Speaking after the game, the former United defender questioned the manager’s “bizarre” changes [Sky Sports], such as Tyler Fredricson replacing Martinez for the final few minutes.
He also questioned why Casemiro was taken off just after the hour mark, with no apparent formation change straight away, with the Brazilian coping fine in the middle of the park.
Howe’s side really put the pressure on in the final stages, seeing several of their efforts saved, ballooned over the crossbar, or wasted by certain players.
Securing the victory was possibly more fortune than it was smart management. However, the Red Devils won’t care, much like the penalty decision won’t matter either.