Ref Watch: Dermot Gallagher Analyzes Key Premier League Incidents

Ref Watch: Key Incidents from the Premier League Weekend

Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher is back with the latest Ref Watch, analyzing incidents from a busy weekend in the Premier League. Key matches included Man City vs. Arsenal, Nottingham Forest vs. Brighton, West Ham vs. Chelsea, and more.

Man City 2-2 Arsenal: Controversial Moments Unpacked

Trossard's Red Card

In the intense matchup between Man City and Arsenal, Leandro Trossard received a second yellow card for delaying the restart by kicking the ball away. Gallagher emphasized that the foul on Silva was evident, and Trossard's actions were influenced by it.

Doku's Incident

Jeremy Doku escaped punishment for a similar act in the first half. Gallagher clarified, "I do not think this is kicking the ball away; it’s a massive difference." He suggested Doku's action was an attempt to regain play, not delay it.

Haaland's Controversial Throw

Following Man City's equalizer, Erling Haaland threw the ball at Gabriel’s head, leading to heightened tensions on the field. Gallagher stated this action was risky but humorous. It's possible that such minors could escalate and lead to bigger issues.

Rodri’s Collision with Havertz

Just seconds into the match, Kai Havertz collided into Rodri. Gallagher noted that without an intentional maneuver, this incident wouldn't attract a red card.

Free Kick Disputes

Manchester City expressed frustration over the free kick leading to their equalizer, believing that Kyle Walker wasn’t allowed adequate time to get back into position. Gallagher noted City’s concerns but held that the referee acted within his rights.

Ederson's Block Incident

Man City's goalkeeper Ederson was accused of being blocked during Arsenal's second goal from a corner. Gallagher pointed out that similar incidents had occurred earlier, allowing players to establish their rights.

Brighton 2-2 Nottingham Forest: A Game of Second Chances

Gibbs-White's Sending Off

Morgan Gibbs-White was handed a second yellow card for a tackle on Joao Pedro. Gallagher commented, “The fourth official is an integral part of the team,” highlighting the combined responsibility referees hold during matches.

Penalty Awarded to Forest

Nottingham Forest received a penalty after Callum Hudson-Odoi was brought down. Gallagher agreed with the decision, saying the defender's challenge lacked the necessary contact with the ball.

West Ham 0-3 Chelsea: VAR Controversies

Denial of a Penalty

West Ham was denied a penalty after Wesley Fofana pulled Crysencio Summerville. Gallagher pointed out the holding lasted too long outside the penalty area, suggesting the referee's decision may have been a significant error.

Other Notable Incidents from Recent Matches

Preston 0-0 Blackburn: Allegations of Biting

Blackburn's Owen Beck alleged he was bitten by Preston's Milutin Osmajic, leading to Beck's sending off. Gallagher mentioned the FA’s investigation into the evidence, indicating a serious approach to any misconduct.

Crystal Palace 0-0 Man Utd: Potential Red Card

Lisandro Martinez avoided punishment for a two-footed challenge, with Gallagher asserting that the absence of contact saved him from a red card.

Tottenham 3-1 Brentford: Handling Outside the Area

Tottenham's goalkeeper handled the ball outside his area, but VAR did not intervene. Gallagher analyzed the situation, stating the importance of the goalkeeper's intentions and the surrounding players' presence.

Conclusion: A Dynamic Weekend in the Premier League

The weekend’s matches showcased various heated moments and contentious decisions, sparking debates surrounding officiating in the Premier League. Gallagher’s insights shed light on how referees navigate complex situations and the importance of procedural integrity.