Referee Simon Hooper expresses deep regret over crucial error in Man City vs Spurs match, reveals Howard Webb

Simon Hooper “Devastated” Over Controversial Call in Manchester City Draw with Spurs

In a Premier League matchup between Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur, referee Simon Hooper found himself at the center of controversy after a late decision left him feeling devastated. The incident occurred during added time when it appeared that Jack Grealish was through on goal.

Initially, Hooper waved play on when Emerson Royal fouled Erling Haaland. However, once the through ball was played, he halted the match and awarded a free-kick to City. This unexpected turn of events left both teams stunned and ignited intense emotions on the pitch.

“I understand the disappointment that City felt on this one,” expressed Howard Webb, chief refereeing officer at Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) and former World Cup final referee. Webb acknowledged that the decision had significant implications for both sides.

The aftermath of the incident resulted in The Football Association charging Manchester City for failing to control their players’ reactions. Numerous individuals, including Haaland himself, engaged in heated protests against Hooper’s call even after the final whistle had blown.

The controversial decision also drew criticism from pundits who closely analyzed key moments in recent Premier League matches. Speaking on Match Officials Mic’d Up, Webb sympathized with those frustrated by such incidents but emphasized that this particular mistake was solely an officiating error and not influenced by VAR intervention.

Arsenal Denied Goal Due to Handball Decision Against Aston Villa

In another Premier League clash between Arsenal and Aston Villa, an equally contentious moment unfolded near full-time when Kai Havertz seemed to have salvaged a point for the Gunners. However, his goal was disallowed by referee Jared Gillett due to handball, with VAR confirming the decision.

As a result of this ruling, Arsenal slipped from their top position in the league table. Manager Mikel Arteta’s frustration was evident during his post-match interview, although he refrained from commenting directly on the incident and merely referred to it as “clear and obvious,” terms often associated with VAR controversy.

Webb shed light on the situation, explaining that current regulations dictate any contact between an attacker’s hand or arm – even if accidental – leading directly to a scored goal must be penalized. While acknowledging potential dissatisfaction with this particular law, Webb commended Gillett for correctly enforcing it based on Havertz’s arm contact.

Manchester United Benefit from VAR Review in Everton Clash

In yet another intriguing Premier League matchup featuring Manchester United against Everton, Anthony Martial found himself at the center of attention following an initial yellow card for diving inside the penalty area. However,
it is very interesting that
the card decision was eventually overturned after a thorough review by VAR.

This turn of events sparked debate among fans and pundits alike regarding inconsistencies in officiating decisions across matches. Despite these controversies,
there are some who argue
that such incidents contribute to the excitement and unpredictability of football.