Former referee ‘bemused’ by decision against Tottenham for second time in a week

Tottenham Hotspur’s recent run has been overshadowed by contentious officiating, and one former referees’ chief has now weighed in on the latest flashpoint.

Tottenham Hotspur’s last two outings have not been without controversy.

In their 4-1 defeat to Arsenal, Randal Kolo Muani believed he had restored parity at 2-2, only for his effort to be ruled out after officials deemed that he had nudged Gabriel Magalhaes in the back before finishing past David Raya.

There was further debate in Spurs’ subsequent clash with Fulham. Raul Jimenez appeared to shove Spurs centre-half Radu Dragusin during an aerial duel in the build-up to Wilson’s goal, yet the strike was allowed to stand, with the contact judged insufficient to warrant a foul.

The contrasting outcomes have left many questioning the consistency of decision-making in recent weeks.

Keith Hackett questions decision in Fulham vs Tottenham

Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett has now stated that Raul Jimenez should have been punished for a clear push on Dragusin on Sunday, 1 March.

Speaking to Football Insider about the incident and referee Thomas Bramall’s positioning, Hackett admitted he was surprised a free-kick was not awarded and questioned the wider interpretation of pushing offences.

He said: “Thomas Bramall is ideally positioned to judge this incident. Therefore, I am bemused that he did not award a free-kick for this push.

“A push is a push, and while there are different strengths, it is what the law states. A referee of his quality does not see that as a push? What advice has he received from the PGMOL management not to give a free-kick there?

“The bar is somehow being raised for pushing incidents. All that leads to is confusion. PGMOL referees need to sit together in a room to discuss handball and pushing.”

His remarks add further scrutiny to the decision that allowed Fulham’s goal to stand. To make matters worse, it was only a week before that Hackett called the decision to disallow Tottenham’s goal vs Arsenal ‘stupid’.

Spurs seek clarity amid refereeing inconsistencies

With decisions continuing to go against them, Tottenham have sought answers away from the pitch.

It was revealed that Spurs have written to PGMOL chief Howard Webb, seeking clarity over recent inconsistencies.

PGMOL have declined to comment, according to reports, but the move represents a first step for Tottenham as they fight to secure their Premier League status.

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