Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer were shocked by one refereeing decision in West Ham’s 2-1 win against Everton.
The Toffees called for a penalty when Mateus Fernandes handled the ball inside the 18-yard box.
Fernandes poked the ball away from Thierno Barry while grappling with the Everton striker from behind.
Referee Stuart Attwell and the Video Assistant Referee both decided not to award the visitors a penalty.
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Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer react to Mateus Fernandes handball incident
Mateus Fernandes’ handball was definitely unintentional, but so is almost every handball incident that is called a foul.
Regardless of intent, the midfielder moved his hand towards the ball and moved it away from Thierno Barry’s control.
Even some West Ham supporters will admit they were on the right side of a controversial decision on this occasion.
England legends Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer were certainly amazed Fernandes got away with his mistake.
Lineker asked, “Did you see that handball? That’s a penalty, isn’t it?” and Shearer replied, “I just think it’s a ridiculous decision not to give that as a handball.
“And then, for even what I heard about the grappling, there was only one player who was grappling.”
Lineker continued, “[Fernandes] was not only fouling him, but also his hand moved to the ball. I don’t like the handball law, but that was a penalty all day long.”
Shearer concluded: “For the life of me, I cannot see how that is not given as handball.”
This incident could have been the difference between West Ham winning the game or not, or even something more significant.
Spurs fans will be furious with the referees if the Hammers beat them to Premier League survival by only a point or two.
However, it is worth remembering that every team deals with good and bad luck with the officials throughout the season.
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