admin“James Tarkowski Goal was ruled out because….”- Mike Dean reacts instantly to Everton vs Fulham controversy as he explained the reason why James Tarkowski goal was ruled out that left Sky pundit baffled
Mike Dean Explains Why James Tarkowski’s Goal Was Ruled Out in Everton vs Fulham Clash
Former Premier League referee Mike Dean has clarified why James Tarkowski’s first-half goal was disallowed during Everton’s match against Fulham on Saturday.
The Toffees thought they had finally broken the deadlock in the 42nd minute when Tarkowski bundled the ball into the net after Michael Keane’s header was saved. However, the defender’s celebrations were short-lived as the assistant referee’s flag was immediately raised for offside, leaving Everton players and fans frustrated.
The decision sparked confusion both on the pitch and in the Sky Sports studio, where pundits initially struggled to understand why the goal had been chalked off.
What Mike Dean Said About the Incident
Speaking live on Sky Sports on 8 November, Mike Dean — now a regular referee analyst for the broadcaster — explained exactly why the goal didn’t stand.
“Keane’s not offside,” Dean said. “When the ball comes in from Grealish, it’s flicked on by Tarkowski to Ndiaye at the back post. He’s just offside.”
That clarification settled the debate, though it didn’t ease the frustration among Everton supporters, who have seen several tight calls go against them this season.
Everton Finally Break Through
Despite the setback, Everton eventually got their reward just before half-time. Idrissa Gueye smashed home from close range after a scrappy passage of play inside the Fulham box, giving the hosts a deserved lead at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
David Moyes’ side dominated the first half:
- 56% possession to Fulham’s 44%
- 8 shots compared to the visitors’ 5
- 1.02 expected goals (xG) versus Fulham’s 0.34
The Toffees had already seen an earlier effort from Thierno Barry ruled out — denying the youngster his first goal for the club — and Moyes will feel his team has suffered more than their fair share of bad luck recently.
Still, the statistics suggest Everton were the better side, and the manager will hope his players can maintain composure and hold on for the win — a result that would end a run of just one victory in their previous eight matches across all competitions.
While Moyes may feel aggrieved by a few decisions this season, even he would admit this one was the correct call — though it won’t feel any less frustrating if Everton fail to see the job through.
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