‘I’ve rewatched it’ – PGMOL expert changes his mind over Man City vs Wolves penalty controversy
Farai Hallam deserves a lot of praise after refusing to change his decision over a Man City penalty appeal against Wolves on Saturday.
That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that he’s changed his mind after Pep Guardiola exploded at Howard Webb on 24 January.
Originally, the former PGMOL chief believed that Omar Marmoush should have won a spot-kick at the Etihad Stadium, as Hallam stuck to his on-field decision despite a VAR check by Darren England.
Yerson Mosquera appeared to handle the ball inside the penalty area, with the Citizens absolutely desperate for the decision to be awarded in their favour, but claims fell on deaf ears.
Farai Hallam deserves a lot of praise for his Premier League debut
Mosquera could have also seen red for his studs-up challenge on Jeremy Doku, with the exit-linked centre-back heavily involved throughout City’s 2-0 win at home.
However, the penalty debate continues on social media, with a lot being made of the referee’s Premier League debut, and Hackett now appears to have a fresh outlook on the incident.
He was adamant that, while it would have been a soft spot-kick for Guardiola‘s side, it was an easy decision to make based on the current laws.
Either way, the former PGMOL chief remained positive about Hallam’s performance and bravery to ignore VAR. But now, he is on board with the decision of no penalty after rewatching the footage.
Keith Hackett changes his mind over Man City vs Wolves controversy
Hackett, exclusively speaking to Football Insider on The Final Whistle, said: “When I first saw it, I thought penalty kick, on the basis that the arm is outside the body, and the ball strikes it.
“Initially, I thought it was a penalty, albeit a soft one. I’ve had the opportunity to rewatch it. I’ve looked and looked, and the area that is in doubt was whether the body shape was extended to make it deliberate.
“I’m supporting the referee. I’ve changed my mind. The award of a penalty kick would be harsh. Hallam did a wonderful job and should get on the Premier League ladder immediately.”
Webb will be buzzing with his decision to bring Hallam into the Premier League, and it is unlikely to be his final appearance of the season after his debut in Manchester.