(Credit Amazon Prime Video)
Fri 6 December 2024 7:00, UK
Fulham’s second goal against Brighton was never going to be disallowed because the “bar of intervention” is so high at corners that they resemble “rugby”, according to Keith Hackett.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former PGMOL chief, ex-FIFA, and Premier League referee accepted that both teams would have been fouling each other in the box despite the referee specifically halting proceedings to warn them.
But “under current management” such indiscretions are routinely “ignored” by officials, as they were by referee Thomas Bramall at Craven Cottage on 5 December.
The Seagulls went 2-1 behind via a Matt O’Riley own-goal but visiting captain Lewis Dunk was furious at a push he received from Issa Diop as the corner came in.
The momentum swung towards the home side after that goal, and Alex Iwobi eventually sealed the match with his second to secure the 3-1 win in the 87th minute.
Lewis Dunk outraged as Brighton lose at Craven Cottage
Hackett told Football Insider, “Even before the ball is placed in the quadrant for a corner kick we witness players holding and pulling even before play is restarted.
“In an attempt to maintain some sort of authority, we see the referee stop the kick from being taken and issue what has become false words of warning.
“We know when the signal is given for the kick to be taken, the players once again start to hold and block each other.
“On this occasion, the ball enters the penalty area. We know offences are taking place on both sides but are ignored and rarely does the referee blow for a penalty kick for the attacking team or a free kick to the defence.
“Referees under the current management are not going to rule out this goal. The bar of intervention is set high and at times football changes to rugby when it comes to corner kicks.”
The decision sparked debate across social media, with Lewis Dunk visibly frustrated during a tense post-match interview with Amazon Prime Video. He was “baffled” that the referees failed to spot the incident.
Brighton remain in a respectable fifth place with 23 points, having recently benefited from officiating controversy at Southampton. Hackett told Football Insider of his worries about the PGMOL’s current technology after the 1-1 draw at St Mary’s.
However, a win could have seen them level with Manchester City in fourth. Fulham, now just a point behind their rivals, ended the day in sixth.
In other news, Nottingham Forest are plotting a permanent Evan Ferguson move in January.
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