Exclusive: Keith Hackett reacts to three West Brom v Oxford United controversies.
West Brom ran out 2-0 victors at Oxford United on Saturday but the game was not without its controversies.
Alex Mowatt put the Baggies ahead at the Kassam Stadium, and John Swift added a goal in the 101st minute to complete Tony Mowbray’s victory. On another day, the Baggies may have felt they should have received a penalty, allowing them to maintain an even more comfortable lead. Keith Hackett, an ex-FIFA referee, responded to a massive Baggies penalty shout while also commenting on a few of other disputed rulings.
Mikey Johnston has West Brom penalty shot waved away
West Brom felt certain they should have had a penalty after Mikey Johnston’s cross hit Alex Matos’ arm in the Oxford area on the stroke of half-time. Despite significant protests from the Republic of Ireland winger, referee Sam Allison remained uninterested and kept his whistle in his mouth. Hackett expressed his support for the official’s decision, telling West Brom News exclusively: “The defender leaps, and the ball strikes (his arm). “I agree with the referee that this was not a premeditated handball because the defender’s arm was close to his body and the ball travelled a short distance at high speed. “No penalty kick, correct call.”
Allison collided with Us midfielder Cameron Brannagan in the second half, and the referee blew his whistle to stop play. Jayson Molumby was particularly frustrated after he scored in the bottom right corner. Hackett stated that there was no cause for the referee to halt play, adding, “The referee should try to avoid taking the space of a player who is unable to challenge for the ball.” It’s refreshing to see the referee use some common sense.”
Callum Styles breaths a sigh of relief for West Brom
Oxford United were then thought they deserved a penalty late in the game when Brannagan’s shot struck West Brom defender Callum Styles’ arm. The Baggies man breathed a sigh of relief, but Hackett acknowledged that the referee made the correct choice.
| West Brom next four fixtures | Home or away |
| Leeds United | Away |
| QPR | Home |
| Burnley | Away |
| Hull City | Home |
Hackett pointed out: “The last incident was not a deliberate handball so referee judgement correct.” The result moves the Baggies up to fifth in the Championship, only one point ahead of Coventry City in seventh.
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