Roy Keane Tears Into Premier League Over ‘Soft’ Newcastle Penalty
Roy Keane Tears Into Premier League Over ‘Soft’ Newcastle Penalty Roy Keane has delivered a typically scathing verdict on the Premier League’s official explanation for the stoppage-time penalty awarded to Liverpool in their 2-2 draw at Newcastle United.Speaking after the governing body confirmed that VAR supported referee Stuart Attwell’s decision because Lewis Hall made contact with Victor Muñoz without winning the ball, Keane refused to hide his contempt.
“I’ve seen the statement and I’ve seen the replays,” Keane said. “They’re telling us there’s enough contact. Enough contact? The lad barely brushes him and we’re giving penalties that decide games in the 95th minute. It’s soft. It’s embarrassing. And it’s the same old story.”
The former Manchester United captain, never one to mince words, accused officials of lowering the threshold for fouls inside the box to an absurd level. “If that’s a penalty, every defender in the league is in trouble. You can’t breathe near an attacker without the referee pointing to the spot. Hall is trying to defend, he’s not lunging in, he’s not hacking him down. Minimal contact and Liverpool get a free go from 12 yards. Newcastle are robbed of a massive win.”Keane reserved particular criticism for the VAR process. “They keep saying VAR isn’t there to re-referee. Fine. But when the contact is that slight, how is it not a clear and obvious error?
They’re hiding behind the ‘referee’s call’ nonsense again. Consistency went out the window years ago. One week it’s nothing, next week it’s a penalty because someone falls over.”The Irishman acknowledged Liverpool’s fight in recovering from 2-1 down but insisted the manner of the equaliser left a sour taste. “Szoboszlai sticks it away, fair enough. But the decision stinks.
Premier League come out with their statement trying to justify it and it just makes them look worse. Fans aren’t stupid.
They can see what’s happening.”Keane’s blunt assessment will resonate with frustrated Newcastle supporters still seething over the late drama at St James’ Park. For him, the episode is further proof that VAR and modern refereeing standards continue to undermine the game.
