The match officials that denied Wolverhampton Wanderers a late penalty against Manchester United have been dropped for the next round of Premier League fixtures.
It’s certainly not the best way for the league to kick off their new campaign when clubs are already receiving apologies for incorrect decisions. Even when the call favours your team, it hardly fills supporters with much hope heading into a fresh season.
Last night, Wolves were demanding a spot-kick in the 95th minute after Andre Onana clashed with forward Sasa Kalajdzic when claiming a cross. He did not touch the ball at all but instead, his hands clattered into the striker and left him on the floor, clutching his head.
Should Wolves have had a penalty? 😬 pic.twitter.com/U2v3fnHhDM
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 14, 2023
VAR studied the incident for several minutes before referee Simon Hooper opted against checking the pitchside monitor and let play resume. Given that the deficit for Wolves was just one goal, the penalty could’ve given them a well-deserved point on the road.
Jon Moss admits incorrect call was made
Post-match, Gary O’Neil, who received a yellow card for protesting the referee’s decision, confirmed that PGMOL’s Jon Moss had spoken to him and admitted that the spot-kick should’ve been given for a ‘clear and obvious error’ – as reported by Simon Stone of the BBC.
Sky Sports has since stated that the officials have not been picked to oversee any fixtures in the second gameweek. This includes Hooper, video assistant ref Michael Salisbury and assistant VAR Richard West.
BREAKING: The officials for last night’s game between Manchester United and Wolves have been dropped for next weekend 🚨pic.twitter.com/wRzNU6ZX3x
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 15, 2023
Footage courtesy of Sky Sports.
