Seamus Coleman: Expert fumes over Everton controversy – ‘It was a joke’
Paul Robinson has slammed the decision not to penalise Oriol Romeu in Southampton’s 2-0 win over Everton on Saturday.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Spurs and Leeds United goalkeeper insisted the Toffees should have had a spot-kick for “a stonewall handball” in the first half.
As relayed on BBC’s Match of the Day (19 February), Seamus Coleman’s cross struck Romeu’s arm inside the area in the opening stages of the game at St. Mary’s.
However, on-field referee Andy Madley did not deem the contact worthy of a penalty and VAR official Andre Marriner decided not to intervene after a short review of the incident.
Robinson is baffled by the decision given the distance the ball travelled before striking Romeu.
“I think Everton were mightily unlucky there,” he told Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs. “It was a stonewall handball for me.
“We have seen this weekend that the handball rule is a matter of opinions. Each referee is interpreting the rule differently. It’s far from ideal because we want consistency.
“I cannot see how that wasn’t given as a penalty. It was a joke if you ask me. The ball has travelled a fair distance and he arm is in an unnatural position.”
Frank Lampard’s side are dangerously close to the relegation zone after the loss to Southampton, with just four points separating themselves and 18th-placed Watford.
Next up is the visit of Premier League champions Man City on Saturday.
In other news, a pundit has claimed Everton are set for a ‘brilliant boost’ after footage emerges.