Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett has defended Anthony Taylor’s decision not to send off Malo Gusto during Chelsea’s 3-1 home defeat to Nottingham Forest, clarifying why the incident did not meet the threshold for a red card.
The controversial moment came in the first half at Stamford Bridge when Gusto pulled back Taiwo Awoniyi inside the penalty area, denying the Forest striker a potential chance to reach a dangerous cross from Dilane Bakwa.
After a VAR review led by James Bell, referee Anthony Taylor awarded a penalty but only issued a yellow card to the Chelsea defender—despite strong appeals from the visiting side for a possible red card for denial of a goalscoring opportunity (DOGSO).
Igor Jesus converted from the spot, putting Forest in control of a match in which Awoniyi would go on to score twice.
Why Gusto avoided a red card
Hackett backed the on-field and VAR decision, explaining that while a foul and penalty were correct, the situation did not fully satisfy the criteria required for a red card.
“Correct decision to award a penalty kick for the pull but did not fulfil the criteria for DOGSO,” Hackett said. “So yellow card was the correct decision. Probability to control the ball was in doubt, and the covering defender in proximity is the reason it is not DOGSO.”
In other words, although Gusto’s shirt pull was clear, officials judged that Awoniyi was not guaranteed control of the ball and that defensive cover was close enough to prevent a clear goalscoring opportunity.
A nervy moment for Chelsea
Gusto’s challenge was far from subtle, with replays showing a sustained hold on Awoniyi’s shirt as he attempted to attack the cross. Given Chelsea’s recent disciplinary issues, the incident immediately sparked concern among supporters.
The club have already accumulated multiple red cards this season, and another dismissal—especially early in the match—could have left them in even deeper trouble against a confident Forest side.
Relief—but questions remain
While Gusto ultimately stayed on the pitch, the incident still highlighted ongoing defensive discipline concerns for Chelsea, who have struggled with costly individual errors throughout the campaign.
With Reece James still sidelined through injury, Gusto’s availability remains crucial for the final stretch of the season.
In the end, Chelsea avoided further punishment—but only just—and the debate over consistency in refereeing decisions is unlikely to go away anytime soon.
