Despite losing to a goal from Eberechi Eze in the first half, Manchester City believed they were going to be given a sizable lead in the FA Cup final versus Crystal Palace. Dean Henderson, the custodian for Palace, was regarded as fortunate to escape punishment for what looked to be a handball outside his penalty area.
When Eze stroked the ball into the back of the City net after a clinical attack that featured outstanding build-up play between Daniel Munoz and Jean-Philippe Mateta, the Eagles were in heaven. Even though Pep Guardiola’s team had a lot of early chances in the first few minutes, Oliver Glasner’s team at Wembley Stadium had first blood.
Hearts were in mouths for a few minutes as VAR investigated an alleged Henderson offence, and Palace fans dreamed of their team winning a major prize for the first time. The former Manchester United custodian saw Erling Haaland running in behind his backline and hurried off his line to thwart the forward’s attempt.
Dean Henderson Will Not Be Punished for Playing Handball Against Man City
For Palace’s goalie, the direction of play was vital.
Henderson was outside his 18-yard box when he made touch with the ball, according to replays. Even though VAR reviewed the incident, the goalie was not penalised for his hand blocking what appeared to be a clear attempt at goal by Haaland. The commentary crew provided the following explanation, which VAR relayed:
“Direction of play is going into the wide area, away from goal.”
Henderson could exhale with relief as the ball went wide of the post and away from the target. He would go on to save Omar Marmoush’s penalty kick to put the underdogs ahead going into the second session, making him the hero before the first forty-five minutes were even done.
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