Credit: Imago / Sky Sports

Harri Burton

Mon 13 April 2026 11:45, UK

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Jefferson Lerma had no other choice but to exaggerate his fall to win Crystal Palace’s late winning penalty against Newcastle United.

That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that Andy Madley should be praised for his key decision at Selhurst Park on Sunday, 12 April.

Oliver Glasner’s side were pushing for a winner after Jean-Philippe Mateta’s first goal ruled out William Osula’s opener, only to be awarded a spot-kick in the second minute of added time.

Palace stole all three points against Newcastle at the death, with Mateta tucking away the penalty in style, but the travelling supporters were furious to see the decision go against them.

Andy Madley should be praised over Jefferson Lerma decision

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former referee said: “There’s no doubt that the offended player, who is being held, has exaggerated his fall.

“But the referee has given the first offence, which is the holding. I’m praising the referee, who is prepared to punish holding in the penalty area. I’m not going to criticise. I’m going to praise him. 

“The reaction from the fans… Yeah, the players are often held, nothing is given, and therefore, there is a degree of exaggeration. This is the dilemma they face. 

“It was an exaggerated fall, but the initial holding was punished. There are probably stronger incidents, with arms being wrapped and players unable to play the ball.”

Eddie Howe under huge pressure after Newcastle United collapse

The Magpies are now sitting 14th in the Premier League table, level on points with their most recent opponents, who have now moved above them with six games remaining.

It is fair to say that the away supporters were furious with their team’s capitulation in South London, and the manager has shouldered the blame after scenes at Selhurst Park.

Newcastle have already been warned against sacking Howe, but the former Bournemouth boss is coming under more crushing pressure amid his team’s struggles across all competitions.

With no Europe to focus on and the relegation battle not a worry at St James’ Park, now would be the perfect time for a change in leadership, but it remains to be seen whether the owners will take action.