The Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO) have admitted that Manchester United's second goal against Nottingham Forest on Sunday should not have been allowed to stand. The controversial decision occurred during an exciting 3-2 victory for the Red Devils at Old Trafford.
The Controversial Incident
In the second half, a cross came in from Manchester United's right flank. Bryan Mbeumo attempted to control the ball, but it deflected off his leg onto his arm, helping him get a shot away. The shot was blocked, and Matheus Cunha slotted home the rebound. However, celebrations were paused as VAR reviewed the goal for a potential handball.
VAR sent referee Michael Salisbury to the monitor, believing it was a handball. However, Salisbury deemed the handball accidental and allowed the goal to stand. This decision left many baffled, including Manchester United legends Gary Neville and Roy Keane, who called the call 'ridiculous'.
PGMO Admits Mistake
On Monday, PGMO chief refereeing officer Howard Webb contacted Nottingham Forest to admit that a mistake had been made. While this admission does not change the match outcome, it adds to the confusion surrounding the handball rule's application.
A Premier League Match Centre post on Sunday read: 'After VAR review, the referee stuck with the original decision to award a goal to Manchester United. Referee announcement: “After review, the decision of goal stands because the handball offence is accidental, therefore the final decision is goal.”'
Reactions from Forest and Pundits
Nottingham Forest manager Vitor Pereira expressed his disappointment after the match, stating: 'In the end it was a pity that the game was decided by a decision that I must accept, but it is not my opinion. For me, it's handball, very clear.'
Gary Neville was highly critical on Sky Sports: 'Honestly, that is ridiculous. The VAR has been clear: the player has handballed it. He looked at it for three minutes and the referee has looked at it for another minute. I can't believe what I have just seen.'
Roy Keane echoed similar sentiments, calling the decision 'confusing' and 'ridiculous'.
Despite PGMO's admission, the result stands, leaving Nottingham Forest frustrated and raising further questions about the consistency of handball decisions in the Premier League.
