Keith Hackett ‘surprised’ by controversial Sunderland incident in Crystal Palace draw
Sunderland battled hard to secure a point away to Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon.
The Black Cats picked up their seventh point of the season at Selhurst Park, with Robin Roefs earning his plaudits for his display against Crystal Palace.
Roefs made an incredible six saves to keep the Eagles at bay, including a double save towards the latter stages of the game.
However, it was the initial effort from Christantus Uche that sparked controversy in the 0-0 draw, and Keith Hackett was surprised by what the officials did.
This article contains exclusive opinion from former FIFA referee Keith Hackett.
Crystal Palace could have been awarded a penalty vs Sunderland
Despite being just four games into the season, Sunderland are no strangers to VAR.
Once again, it was in operation for Sunderland’s 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, with several incidents throughout the clash checked and ultimately cleared.
Sunderland’s stats vs Crystal Palace
- 44% possession
- 6 shots
- 0 shots on target
- 0 big chances
- 0.36 xG
However, the most controversial one saw Wilson Isidor somewhat leave a foot in on Uche after the Nigerian struck towards goal, with the Palace faithful adamant that it was a penalty.
VAR checked it and advised against a review, and Hackett believes it was the wrong call.
Speaking exclusively to Mackem News, he said: “The challenge is reckless by the Sunderland player who, with a high boot, attempting to stop the shot, comes into contact with the player making the shot on goal.
“I was rather surprised that VAR did not advise the referee to have a second look at this challenge.”
- Read more: Regis Le Bris confirms exactly why Enzo Le Fee was left out for Sunderland’s clash vs Crystal Palace
What did Oliver Glasner say about the penalty incident?
Hackett isn’t the only one who thought the Eagles should have been awarded a penalty, with Oliver Glasner echoing those sentiments after the game.
Via Match of the Day, Glasner said: “I think at the end, we have to get a penalty.
“I think Isidor caught Uche when he had the finish, he comes with the studs up and for me it is a clear penalty.”
Sunderland fans will think it was a soft incident, though, with how VAR operates in the modern game, anything could have happened.
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