Howard Webb backs Michael Oliver decision over not awarding Liverpool a late penalty against Man City… but admits there is ‘split opinion’
Referee Howard Webb has backed Michael Oliver’s decision not to award Liverpool a penalty in the closing stages of their key Premier League title clash with Manchester City.
The Reds felt aggrieved at not being given an injury time penalty for Jeremy Doku’s high tackle on Alexis Mac Allister at Anfield.
Referee Michael Oliver decided to play on, while VAR agreed with the on-field decision in the closing stages of the 1-1 draw.
PGMOL’s Match Officials Mic’d Up show broadcast Oliver’s communications with his officiating team surrounding the decision.
“No, not for me buddy. The ball is in the middle. “I think the ball is in the middle and he’s just trying to play the ball, there could be some contact,” Oliver said.
Liverpool saw a criminal case dismissed over Jeremy Doku’s challenge on Alexis Mac Allister
Oliver was supported by VAR official Stuart Attwell, who confirmed the decision on the pitch.
‘So there is clearly ball contact from Doku. Okay, so here’s the ball and then there’s a coming together. He plays the ball, the ball is high, they both come in high,” Atwell said.
‘I don’t think there is enough evidence for a penalty. He plays the ball. He definitely touched it, Mac Allister then enters his space. Mac Allister turns his back, it’s a coming together.’