Keith Hackett, former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, commended Anthony Taylor for his handling of a “very tight call” during the match between Wolves and Crystal Palace. Hackett exclusively told Football Insider that Taylor made the correct decision by not awarding a penalty in favor of the Eagles on 22 November.
In the game, Man United-linked Daniel Munoz scored the opening goal followed by Yeremi Pino doubling the lead for Wolves at Molineux. Despite Palace’s desire for Jean-Philippe Mateta to extend his contract, the striker missed a key chance in the 16th minute.
A pivotal moment occurred early in the match when David Moller Wolfe challenged Ismaila Sarr on the edge of the box. The incident, which could have resulted in a penalty, led to debates among players and spectators alike. Hackett, after reviewing multiple angles of the incident, remains uncertain about the decision.
While the Eagles were hopeful for a penalty, the VAR review upheld Taylor’s original decision to award a free-kick outside the penalty area. Hackett emphasized that the line is considered part of the penalty area, and in this case, the doubt surrounding the incident led him to support the referee’s call for a free-kick.
Amid continued debates, Hackett backed Taylor’s judgment, stating that it is preferable to award a doubtful free-kick than a doubtful penalty in such situations. Ultimately, Taylor’s decision not to award Crystal Palace a penalty was seen as the correct call by the former referee.
