Exclusive: Keith Hackett shares verdict on Crystal Palace penalty v West Brom
We’re delighted to welcome former Premier League referee Keith Hackett as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at West Brom…
Keith Hackett has heaped praise on Mike Dean for his use of VAR to award Crystal Palace a penalty in their Premier League clash against West Brom.
Simon Hooper missed the initial incident where Darnell Furlong handled the ball but was called to the screen by the likes of Dean.
Hackett slammed Hooper for his handling of the situation, claiming that his positioning was nowhere near good enough; something that could have benefitted the Baggies.
Speaking exclusively to West Brom News, Hackett said, “Absolutely spot on.
“The main point I would bring in, is why didn’t Simon Hooper see this? I just worry about this guys movement on the field of play. The referee’s process is to see, recognise, think and act.
“If you don’t see it, you’re not going to give it. He was miles adrift of seeing it, it’s a clear handball, there’s no question the player has held his hand out, he’s moved his body towards it by stooping down a little.
“Where Mike Dean has taken some criticism, on this occasion I applaud Mike Dean coming in and almost saying to him, that’s a penalty kick – it was the correct outcome.”
Dean hasn’t had the best of records this season.
Semi Ajayi, Kieran Gibbs and Slaven Bilic have all been sent off this season by the experienced referee, and he struck once again in the defeat at Palace over the weekend.
It is hard to disagree with his decisions in these situations barring the Bilic incident against Everton earlier in the season at Goodison Park.
Furlong can’t have many arguments, and the Albion have to cut out these mistakes if they want to survive in the Premier League.
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