Ex-FIFA official stunned by Everton v Crystal Palace controversy, ‘What is VAR for?’
Noel Egan claims Jean-Philippe Mateta should have been awarded a penalty as Crystal Palace lost 2-1 to Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday (28 September).
The ex-FIFA official has questioned the point of VAR after a spot kick was not awarded during the clash between the Toffees and the Eagles.
Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher agrees with Egan that Palace should have been awarded a penalty for James Tarkowski’s challenge on Mateta in the second half, although insists it was a “tough call” (via Sky Sports News’ Ref Watch, 11:39 am, 30 September).
However, Egan – speaking exclusively to Goodison News – claims it was a “stonewall penalty”.
“It was a penalty every time,” Egan said.
“I can’t believe the referee and then the VAR denied that one. I mean what is VAR for? Tarkowski actually makes contact with Mateta twice. Therefore, I see two challenges there which can both lead to a penalty kick being awarded. I was absolutely baffled by that decision.
“Whether it was the fact that Goodison Park was bouncing after Everton had come from behind, I’m not sure. Something there smacks of being completely wrong.
“That was an absolute stonewall penalty in my opinion. I just don’t understand that one at all.”
Everton lucky after Jean-Philippe Mateta denied penalty for Crystal Palace?
Had Palace been awarded a penalty and scored, some doubts might have crept in at Goodison Park.
Therefore, supporters will be relieved that their side were let off the hook and they were able to hold on for their first three points of the season.
While some might argue they were lucky, Sean Dyche and his players will feel as though they are due a bit of luck after their miserable start to the season.
Pressure remains on the Everton boss to turn things around. However, this win against Palace is a good start.
And after the positive takeover developments followed by this win, last week was probably the best week at Goodison Park for quite some time.
In other Everton news, a Seamus Coleman injury update has emerged after a brand-new revelation.
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