“Upon reviewing it… – Former Premier League referee comments on the controversial decision in Ipswich vs. Everton match.”
Dermot Gallagher argues that referee Michael Oliver made an error by initially awarding a penalty against Everton during their 2-0 victory over Ipswich Town on Saturday (19 October).
Dwight McNeil fouled Jack Clarke in the penalty area during a 1-0 match at Portman Road.
Referee Michael Oliver initially awarded a penalty to the hosts, but after a VAR review, he reversed the decision.
Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher, speaking on Sky Sports Ref Watch (21 October, 11:41 am), agreed with Oliver’s reversal.
He compared it to a similar incident involving Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Dan Burn in Everton’s recent 0-0 draw against Newcastle United.
Gallagher explained: “This is identical to the Calvert-Lewin and Dan Burn situation. In both cases, the attacker caught the defender.
I understand why the referee initially awarded the penalty, but the replay shows the attacker made contact with the defender.”
Everton’s win against Ipswich Town was a pivotal result, extending their unbeaten run in the Premier League to four games.
While the overturned penalty decision may have been fortunate for Everton, Ipswich never really threatened Sean Dyche’s side, who are finding their form.
Dwight McNeil, playing in a new role behind the striker, continued his strong performances, though he didn’t add to his six-goal contributions from eight starts. His efforts, however, were appreciated by Dyche.
Michael Keane answered his critics with a stunning goal to make it 2-0 after Iliman Ndiaye’s opener.
It’s clear the players are backing their manager, despite uncertainty surrounding his future.
The consecutive 3-2 losses to Bournemouth and Aston Villa, where Everton squandered two-goal leads, now seem like a distant memory at Goodison Park.
With a five-point cushion from the relegation zone, Everton’s outlook is increasingly positive, and the team looks set to continue improvingfrom here.
