August 15, (THEWILL) – Wolverhampton Wanderers were controversially denied a late penalty in their 1-0 defeat away to Manchester United on Saturday, according to Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) chief, Jonathan Moss.
Moss personally apologised to Wolves manager, Gary O’Neil, following the game, admitting referee Simon Hooper made a “clear and obvious error” in not awarding a spot-kick for a foul on striker, Sasa Kaladjzic. The incident occurred deep into stoppage time when United debutant, Andre Onana, clattered into Kaladjzic as both challenged for a cross. Referee Hooper opted not to point to the spot, a decision that was not overturned by VAR.
The decision infuriated O’Neil, who was booked for his protests. Speaking after the game, O’Neil revealed he had spoken to Moss, who conceded it should have been a penalty. “Fair play to Jonathan for coming out and saying it was clear and obvious error, he can’t believe the on-field referee didn’t give it and he can’t believe VAR didn’t intervene”, said O’Neil.
Due to the controversial call, United held on for a 1-0 win, thanks to a late goal from Raphael Varane. United boss, Erik ten Hag, disagreed with Moss’ assessment, claiming no penalty should have been given. “After the opponent touched the ball he dived in so it was the judgement of the officials and lucky for us no penalty,” said ten Hag.
The loss leaves Wolves with zero points after their opening English Premier League match of the new campaign. O’Neil’s side will be hoping their luck turns around in their next game, at home to Brighton and Hove Albion, as they seek their first points of the season following this controversial defeat.
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Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
