Keith Hackett reacts to Everton vs Wolves penalty controversy as fans demand spot-kick
Wolves were hoping for a penalty immediately after the break as Everton drew 1-1 against Wolves in the Premier League on Wednesday.
Rob Edwards’ team travelled to the Hill Dickinson Stadium on 7 January, with the Toffees taking a lead into the break, but Mateus Mane equalised in the second half.
Michael Keane scored in the 17th minute against Wolves before his header in the 29th minute hit the woodwork, but he had a disastrous second half and was sent off for pulling Tolu Arokodare’s hair.
In the 46th minute, a looping ball was played into the Merseyside outfit’s box, with James Tarkowski fighting to make a second clearance, and his tussle with Ladislav Krejci led to calls for a penalty from the visiting supporters.
Thomas Kirk makes right call in Everton vs Wolves
Thomas Kirk was right not to award Wolves a penalty early in the second half.
Tarkowski only had eyes for the ball at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, and any contact with Krejci was arguably accidental.
Keith Hackett was satisfied with the decision, despite the away supporters feeling they were hard done by.
Speaking exclusively to Goodison News, the ex-PGMOL chief said, “Football is a contact sport, and the decision not to award a penalty kick was the correct decision. I am satisfied that and contact of Tarkowski and his opponent was accidental.”
Moyes made one change with Harrison Armstrong, and the youngster definitely has a role to play under the Scottish manager until the end of the season.
The Merseyside outfit are still within touching distance of a European spot, and consistency will be key for them to have a successful season.
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Friedkin Group let David Moyes down after what’s seen at Hill Dickinson Stadium
The Friedkin Group are reluctant to sign players for Moyes in January, with only loan deals really being considered in the winter transfer window.
After a dominant first-half display at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, Everton were unable to cope with Wolves after Edwards brought on Andre at the break.
| Matches | Wins | Draws | Losses |
| 23 | 9 | 5 | 9 |
While Armstrong showed glimpses of his talent, he, along with Tim Iroegbunam, struggled in the middle of the park in the second half.
It was a game of two halves for the Merseysiders, and one can’t help but think the recruitment team has let Moyes down, with Jack Grealish also sent off towards the end.