The Premier League has delivered a verdict on Everton’s controversial penalty against Arsenal.
Arsenal led 1-0 at halftime during their Premier League clash at Goodison Park on Saturday. However, they were quickly pegged back early in the second half.
Iliman Ndiaye equalized from the penalty spot after Myles Lewis-Skelly was deemed to have fouled Jack Harrison. Ndiaye’s goal was the only one of the second half, and the match ended in a 1-1 draw.
The penalty decision sparked controversy, as the initial contact appeared to occur outside the box, and Lewis-Skelly released Harrison before he fell to the ground.
VAR reviewed the incident but did not recommend an on-field check for referee Darren England.
The Premier League Match Centre later issued a statement on X, saying: “The referee’s decision to award a penalty for Lewis-Skelly’s challenge on Harrison was reviewed and confirmed by VAR, with the contact deemed sufficient for a penalty and inside the area.”
TNT Sports commentator and former Leeds Women’s striker Lucy Ward supported the call, stating: “Myles Lewis-Skelly misjudged the bounce and was always second best. Ndiaye remained composed and sent Raya the wrong way.”
Arsenal entered the match 12 points behind league leaders Liverpool, knowing they couldn’t afford to drop more points if they hoped to stay in contention.
The draw further boosted Everton’s Merseyside rivals, with Liverpool needing just 11 points from their remaining eight games to secure the title.
Fans reacted on X, with one saying, “It’s over, congratulations Liverpool on the title!” Another added, “Everton securing Liverpool the title in three days.” A third simply wrote, “Just hand Liverpool the title now.”
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