Mike Dean has reacted to a contentious situation in Everton’s match against Ipswich Town at Portman Road. The Toffees won their second Premier League game of the season, 2-0 over the Tractor Boys on Saturday (19 October), with to goals from Iliman Ndiy and Michael Keane. Ipswich were awarded a penalty midway through the first half after Dwight McNeil was adjudged to have fouled Jack Clarke in the box, but Dean and the video assistant referee concluded it was insufficient for a foul. Speaking on Sky Sports Soccer Saturday (19 October, 15:43), he said: “Everton have had two given against them or overturned, but this one appears to be the same.
“It appears Clarke has kicked the back of McNeil’s leg, causing him to fall. “I do not believe it is a penalty kick.”I believe he kicked the back of his leg. Just because his foot is there, kicking the back of his leg is not a foul.” Should Ipswich have had a penalty in the Everton vs. Ipswich Town match at Portman Road? It’s about time Everton have some luck with disputed decisions, especially in the penalty area.
It’s no secret that Sean Dyche was becoming increasingly upset with the referees and VAR prior to the October international break, with the implication that the Blues manager didn’t anticipate any 50-50 calls to go the Toffees’ way. But, for once, it appears that common reason has won. McNeil was completely within his rights to compete for the ball, and he should not be punished for Clarke accidently kicking his standing leg, even if it did prevent him from taking a shot. Hopefully, the international break has given the officials some opportunity to reconsider what constitutes a penalty. Dyche and Everton supporters will have no qualms as long as the threshold remains consistent in the foreseeable future.
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