Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher has voiced his support for Video Assistant Referee’s (VAR) decision to overturn Leeds United’s late penalty claim in their recent 4-1 triumph against Crystal Palace. The contentious penalty was initially awarded after a challenge from Palace’s Borna Sosa on Ilia Gruev. However, after VAR scrutiny, it became evident that the incident commenced outside the penalty box and the crucial point of contact did not occur inside the penalty area.
Gallagher, in his analysis on Sky Sports’ Ref Watch, explained, “I think with a trip, it is what it is. If you pull somebody’s shirt back, it can go into the penalty area but it’s clearly outside the penalty area, the [18-yard] line is quite defining. VAR looked at it, it only had to look once and said to Thomas Bramall it’s factually outside the box, give the free-kick. He doesn’t even have to go to the screen.”
The Whites may have felt somewhat aggrieved by this decision, especially after earlier penalty appeals were dismissed. Notably, Brenden Aaronson’s incident in the Palace box involving a challenge by Tyrick Mitchell was also turned down, despite potential arguments for a penalty.
Regarding the late penalty claim, former Leeds striker Jay Bothroyd was critical, describing the decision as ‘laughable’ and emphasizing the clear error in awarding the penalty. Bothroyd suggested that Bramall might feel embarrassment upon reviewing the situation.
Stach’s successful free-kick from the incident sealed Leeds’ impressive 4-1 victory, where goals from Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Ethan Ampadu, and Anton Stach showcased their attacking prowess. Calvert-Lewin’s double gave Leeds a comfortable lead at halftime, with the team further demonstrating their dominance as the match progressed. Despite the penalty decision causing some tension within Elland Road, Stach’s goal swiftly put an end to any doubts about the result.
