Former Premier League referee Mark Halsey has written a strong statement against the decision not to give Newcastle a penalty for Gabriel’s handball during their dramatic 2-1 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday afternoon. The Magpies seemed destined for another massive Premier League win after leading at St James’ Park until the 84th minute.
The match was not without controversy. Viktor Gyokeres was awarded a penalty after being clattered by Pope, but VAR overturned the decision, which was highly lambasted by experts. Arsenal’s Gabriel then garnered the greatest criticism, seeming to swipe an elbow at Nick Woltemade in the first half then obviously blocking a shot in the area with his hand deep into stoppage time. Both incidents went unpunished, making Newcastle furious. Watch the incident below.
Former Premier League Referee’s Verdict on Gabriel Handball
Halsey, who spent 14 years as a Premier League official after rising through the Football League ranks, has decided whether a penalty should have been awarded after Anthony Elanga’s shot was clearly handballed by the Brazilian international. He told the Sun (video below):
“I think the decision was correct; no penalty. It was a blocked tackle that bounced back off Elanga and struck Gabriel’s arm, which was in a natural posture. When you fall to the ground, where can your arm go? Your arm needs to be in the air. And look at the ball’s speed and vicinity.”
“I would have been amazed if Gillett would have recommended a review,” the 64-year-old added, implying that Simon Hooper’s on-field decision was not as contentious as many rival supporters had imagined.
Mikel Arteta’s side’s victory cut the deficit to Liverpool from five to two points, after the champions were defeated 2-1 away at Crystal Palace earlier this weekend. With Arsenal hosting West Ham next Saturday afternoon, before Liverpool faces Chelsea in the evening, the Gunners might momentarily lead the table.
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