Ex-PGMOL chief makes his feelings clear over Burnley vs Everton penalty controversy amid 'blatant stupidity' call

Everton are right to feel disappointed after Tyler Dibling was denied a penalty during a goalless draw against Burnley on Saturday.

That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that Craig Pawson made a mistake not to award a spot-kick at Turf Moor on 27 December.

Both sides had chances to score, but after penalty appeals fell upon deaf ears, even after a VAR check, Everton fans demanded an inquest into Pawson, sending a clear message to Howard Webb.

Hackett has been critical of Pawson previously in the season, as Riccardo Calafiori avoided a simple caution against Sunderland last month, and the referee is back under the microscope again.

Everton cry out for a penalty after Tyler Dibling has a shot blocked

With the game grinding to an inevitable 0-0 finish, Dibling let fly from just inside the Clarets' penalty area in the 86th minute, a shot which was blocked by the arm of Jaidon Anthony.

The rebound caused Scott Parker's side to counter-attack, forcing the 19-year-old to bring the opposition down and pick up a caution, but the Toffees are adamant that that should never have happened.

Burnley are battling Premier League relegation this season, so it was a vital point for the strugglers, but a victory for the visitors would have seen them move within two points of fifth place.

Compared to James Tarkowski being punished against Leeds United in the opening game of the 2025-26 campaign, Hackett felt sorry for the Toffees, stating that a penalty should have, in fact, been awarded.

David Moyes has a right to be furious vs Burnley

Providing his opinion on the incident, Football Insider's Ollie Farrow said: “No idea [why it’s not been given]. I think it’s just blatant stupidity. It’s obviously touched his hand.” 

And speaking exclusively to Football Insider on The Final Whistle, Hackett responded: “I think they were unfortunate not to get a penalty kick. It’s interesting because the body shape was larger. 

“The explanation that comes through when they actually examine it will be distance, which doesn’t allow for the player to respond and react. I think that player had enough time, though, to remove his hand and arm.”