Ref Watch: Dermot Gallagher Reviews Key Premier League Incidents This Weekend

Controversial Moments from the Weekend's Premier League Action

Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher returns to delve into the major incidents that made headlines during the latest football weekend in the Premier League. This article covers the contentious moments, interpretations, and decisions made by referees, offering insights and analysis based on Gallagher's expert opinions.

Could Eze's Free-Kick Have Stood?

Incident: Referee Sam Barrott disallows a free-kick goal by Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze, penalizing teammate Will Hughes for a foul on Brentford's Nathan Collins just before the kick.

Dermot's Perspective: Gallagher observed that the incident could serve as a learning moment. If Barrott had waited a second, it would have allowed the goal to count, and he could have assessed the situation better without closing off options immediately.

Cash and Soucek Collision: A Penalty Award?

Incident: A penalty is awarded to West Ham after Matty Cash challenges Tomas Soucek in the box, despite Cash making contact with the ball.

Gallagher's Analysis: The incident raises questions about whether simply touching the ball absolves a player from committing a foul. Gallagher emphasizes sticking with the referee's decision in such tight situations.

Was Everton's Penalty Decision Correctly Overturned?

Incident: Everton's penalty awarded by referee Simon Hooper is reversed after VAR intervention following contact between Lewis Dunk and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

Expert Opinion: Gallagher supports the VAR's intervention, stating that Calvert-Lewin's foot contact with Dunk caused his imbalance, leading to the correct reversal of the initial penalty decision.

Was Schar's Red Card Justified?

Incident: Newcastle's Fabian Schar receives a red card for a headbutt-like action towards Southampton's Ben Brereton Diaz.

Dermot's Conclusion: He acknowledges the necessity of the decision but critiques Brereton Diaz's reaction, calling it dramatic and contributing to the situation.

Correct Refereeing Decisions: Mosquera and Havertz

Incident: A bizarre clash in the Arsenal-Wolves match sees Yerson Mosquera appearing to push Kai Havertz's throat while falling.

Gallagher's Comments: Referring to the incident, Gallagher believes the referee made the right call, viewing it as aggressive but not violent.

Kovacic's Non-Penalty: Understanding New Guidelines

Incident: A handball incident involving Mateo Kovacic does not result in a penalty for Chelsea.

Gallagher's Insight: He supports the non-penalty decision, noting that under new guidelines, very close handball situations are likely to see fewer penalties awarded this season.

Final Thoughts: Refereeing in the Premier League

These incidents highlight the challenges and nuances faced by referees within the fast-paced environment of the Premier League. With high stakes, every decision can lead to significant implications for teams and players. Gallagher's insights serve as a reminder of the complexity of officiating and the ongoing evolution of rules and interpretations.

Would you agree with Gallagher’s assessments, or do you have a different perspective? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Additional Resources:

• Read more about new guidelines in football officiating.
• Check out weekend match highlights and analysis.