BBC pundit responds as Match of the Day highlights Everton vs. Bournemouth controversy.

Everton entered what turned out to be their final-ever FA Cup match at Goodison Park on 8 February, but they were unable to secure a victory.

It was Bournemouth who played the role of spoilers, with first-half goals from Daniel Jebbison and Antoine Semenyo putting the Cherries in control.

Semenyo won a penalty after being fouled by James Tarkowski, a decision made by referee John Brooks, and confidently converted from the spot.

Ashley Williams Weighs in on Bournemouth’s Penalty

The penalty decision sparked frustration among the home fans, who made their displeasure known before Semenyo fired past Jordan Pickford.

However, former Everton defender and BBC pundit Ashley Williams had no doubts about the referee’s call.

Speaking on Match of the Day (8 February), Williams stated:

“Tarkowski should have recovered quicker, but instead, he had to make a last-ditch tackle. When you slow it down, you can see—it’s a penalty for me.

Maybe he gets a slight touch on the ball, but he also gets the player.”

Williams’ analysis made it clear that he fully agreed with the referee’s decision, which ultimately ended Everton’s FA Cup journey.

Everton’s FA Cup Hopes Dashed at Goodison

With Goodison Park hosting its final season, Everton fans had hoped for a deep cup run as a fitting farewell to their historic home.

Under David Moyes, there has been renewed optimism among supporters, and many believed the team could deliver a strong performance.

However, things did not go to plan. Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth, currently thriving in the Premier League, carried their strong form into the cup tie, securing a 2-0 victory with relative ease.

The lack of fight from Everton will be a major disappointment for their fans.

Given the atmosphere Goodison can generate, the home crowd had expected their team to battle harder for a memorable send-off.

With the FA Cup now out of reach, Everton must turn their focus back to the league. A crucial Merseyside Derby against Liverpool awaits, and Moyes will be eager to rally his squad as they aim for a strong finish to the season.