Alan Pardew’s verdict on Callum Wilson’s disallowed goal against Arsenal may not be what West Ham fans wanted to hear.
Many Hammers supporters are understandably frustrated with VAR for denying them a hard-earned point.
The inconsistency of fouls against goalkeepers throughout the season made the decision very controversial.
However, former West Ham manager Pardew reluctantly agreed with referee Chris Kavanagh’s match-defining call.
Instead of blaming the officials, Pardew pointed the finger at Pablo Felipe for giving them a decision to make.
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The right call? Or harsh on Pablo?
Alan Pardew ‘disappointed’ with Pablo Felipe foul on David Raya
West Ham fans’ frustration is understandable, given that so many similar incidents have been allowed this season.
There were also several potential fouls committed by Arsenal players at the same set piece, including Declan Rice.
However, Pardew insisted that VAR made the correct decision to penalise Pablo for grabbing David Raya’s arm.
He also questioned whether the Portuguese forward needed to take a risk when Raya was already under pressure.
Nothing can change now – but what do YOU want to hear from the PGMO?! 😳
I want to know why Rice on Dinos was ignored! 😡
“When you look at all the replays, you have to be disappointed that Pablo has put his arm across him there because the keeper was under enough pressure as it was,” Pardew said.
“[Raya] might have made an error anyway and may not have collected the ball. It didn’t look like he was going to catch it; it looked like he was going to paw at it.
“The arm across meant he missed it completely, and then obviously it’s ricocheted out, and it’s smashed in, and it’s definitely behind the line and a goal…
“I think it’s the correct [decision], if I’m honest, as much as it hurts me. I’m just disappointed in Pablo. I don’t think he needed to do that.”
It is difficult to argue with Pardew’s assessment of the situation in isolation, but the wider context is equally important.
Arsenal, in particular, have benefitted from lenient officiating from set pieces throughout the 2025/26 season.
Many would argue that if every Pablo-like foul were given this season, the Gunners would have scored several fewer goals.
The decision will go down in history as one of VAR’s most important ever, especially if Arsenal win the league and West Ham are relegated.
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