admin‘There’s doubt’ – Keith Hackett delivers penalty verdict as Wolves vs Crystal Palace controversy re-analysed
Anthony Taylor has earned praise after making a difficult judgement call during Wolverhampton Wanderers’ match against Crystal Palace.
Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett told Football Insider that Taylor was correct not to award a penalty to the Eagles during the game on Saturday, 22 November.
Manchester United target Daniel Muñoz broke the stalemate in the 63rd minute, putting Palace ahead against a stubborn Wolves back line. Yeremi Pino extended the lead six minutes later at Molineux.
Crystal Palace are eager for Jean-Philippe Mateta to sign a new contract at Selhurst Park, but the striker had a poor moment 16 minutes in, missing a golden opportunity by his usual standards. Earlier in the game, David Moller Wolfe collided with Ismaila Sarr on the edge of the penalty area, sparking debate.
Glasner’s men could have had the opening goal within the first 10 minutes if Taylor had judged the challenge to be inside the box. The incident was closely contested as players gathered outside the area.
Wolfe slid into Sarr just 12 minutes into the match, and the contact appeared to be right on the penalty-line boundary. However, Taylor awarded a free-kick rather than a spot-kick.
The Eagles urged for a penalty, but after reviewing multiple camera angles, Hackett still could not be fully certain.
Even after a lengthy VAR assessment, controversy persisted, adding to a frustrating day for Palace — despite Rob Edwards coming in as Wolves’ new manager ahead of the fixture.
Why Anthony Taylor’s decision was correct
Speaking to Football Insider, Hackett explained:
“We need to remember that the line is part of the penalty area. I’ll admit, if you’re in the VAR room, you have several angles to examine. It’s an extremely tight decision, but I’m backing the referee. The contact is outside the box, not inside. The angles introduce doubt.
“You’re always better off awarding a doubtful free-kick than a doubtful penalty. I support the match officials and their call to give a free-kick outside the area.”
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