Former Premier League official Dermot Gallagher has performed a dramatic U-turn, now stating that Chelsea were rightfully denied a penalty in their contentious Premier League clash with Aston Villa.
Controversial Incident at Stamford Bridge
The pivotal moment occurred early in the second half at Stamford Bridge. A lofted cross was sent towards the far post, where Aston Villa defender Ian Maatsen, a former Chelsea player, made contact with the ball using his arm while attempting to block an effort from Pedro Neto.
Immediate and loud appeals for a penalty ensued from the Chelsea players and supporters. However, on-field referee Stuart Attwell waved play on. His decision was backed by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), Paul Howard, after a routine check.
Gallagher's Change of Heart
Initially, on the day of the match, Saturday, December 27th, Gallagher believed a spot-kick should have been awarded. However, speaking on Sky Sports' Ref Watch segment, he revealed his stance had shifted after 36 hours of reflection.
"I've changed my mind," Gallagher stated. "On Saturday, I thought handball but two things went in his favour. He has his eyes closed because he thinks he's going to get clattered and it hits him high up on the arm."
Co-presenter and former footballer Jay Bothroyd offered a contrasting view, arguing Maatsen was fortunate. "He's lucky... You have to give that a penalty, he's got away with one there," Bothroyd contended, suggesting the presence of Neto ready to score was a crucial factor.
Match Outcome and Title Race Implications
The decision proved significant for the match's outcome. Villa, having survived the scare, grew in dominance during the second period. Ollie Watkins scored twice to overturn an early strike from Chelsea's Joao Pedro, sealing a vital 2-1 away victory.
The three points at Stamford Bridge fuelled talk of Aston Villa being genuine title contenders. Manager Unai Emery, however, was quick to downplay such speculation. "Not really. I am not feeling it," he said when asked about a title race. "Man City and Arsenal, wow... Arsenal and Man City are still in front of us."
The win sets up a crucial top-of-the-table encounter, with Villa scheduled to face league leaders Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. Following that, Emery's side has a favourable run of home fixtures against Nottingham Forest, Brentford, Brighton, and Leeds United over the coming two months.
