Ex-referee Mark Halsey has shared his take on the on-field penalty decision that left Chelsea frustrated against Manchester United.
Halsey backs referee’s decision on Chelsea penalty claim
Chelsea felt robbed against Man United, when Joao Pedro hit the deck in the first half after a challenge inside the penalty box. Enzo Maresca was animated on the sidelines, arms flailing, certain his side should have been handed a spot-kick.
Referee Peter Banks did not agree and waved play on. It was a choice that had fans in the seats conversing and would later encourage conflict on social media.
Mark Halsey, a retired Premier League referee, came in with a judgment after watching the video.
Speaking to the Sun, he said: “Peter Banks has got that one absolutely spot on. Not a penalty, for me.”
Coming from a veteran of the whistle, that opinion will cool some of the noise but hardly silence Chelsea’s anger.
United hold on for vital win
The incident wasn’t the only talking point on a night where Man Utd desperately needed a win. Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro each found the net early on. They handed the advantage to the home side and igniting the Old Trafford faithful.
Chelsea’s Trevor Chalobah got one back late on. He brought a nervous conclusion to the game for United as the Blues sought a leveler. Although, Man Utd faced the pressure of Chelsea’s effort to push for an equalizer. But, they were able to hold on for three much-needed points. That out off some of the mounting pressure for Ruben Amorim and some of his recent lineup choices.
For Maresca, his frustration stemmed not only from the score but what he thought was a chance to get back into the match with a missed penalty. With Halsey siding with the referee, Chelsea will feel once again that luck deserted them in a marquee clash.
Author’s Opinion:
Calls like these always split opinion. Halsey’s backing adds weight to Banks’ decision, but from Chelsea’s angle it still looks like one that got away. Football thrives on these instances, and this one will be replayed long after the final whistle.
