Everton manager David Moyes was furious with the officiating after his side’s controversial 1-0 defeat to Arsenal in the English Premier League on Saturday night.
The Gunners returned to the top of the standings after earning a hard-fought victory over the Toffees, although it was marred by some controversial decisions by the officials.
William Saliba fouled Thierno Barry inside the area in the second half, but the contact was deemed insufficient after a long VAR Review, with no penalty awarded.
The away side themselves scored through a spot-kick, which was awarded by the Video Assistant Referee for a handball by Jake O’ Brien.
“I’d like to [tell you], but I’d probably be fined in some ways. You need to find ways at Sky to talk to referees or don’t bother asking me.
“It was a day where just a lot of things didn’t quite suit and go our way. There were quite a few people going down injured. The referee was blowing up for them. It’s a different football club here. We play tough. We expect our referees to do the same”, the Everton boss said.
Arsenal headed into the clash hoping to return to the top of the EPL standings ahead of the festive season, after Manchester City’s win over West Ham United on Saturday afternoon.
Victor Gyokeres scored the only goal of the clash from the spot-kick after O’Brien had handled a corner kick from Declan Rice.
The Gunners hit the post twice in the second half, while Bukayo Saka had an effort cleared off the line in a frantic second half.
“I think they’re saying it’s insignificant contact, and it might have been”, Moyes stated when referring to the penalty appeals.
“May well have been. They come up with new words for every decision don’t they?”
Arsenal return to the top of the standings with 39 points, while Everton sit 10th on the log with 24 points.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
