Alan Shearer has responded to Jeff Stelling’s criticisms of Saturday night’s BBC Match of the Day.
Alan Shearer has responded to Jeff Stelling’s criticism of Match of the Day for failing to address Newcastle’s disputed second penalty against West Ham. The Magpies were granted a penalty kick when Anthony Gordon was fouled by Kalvin Phillips, and Eddie Howe’s team miraculously came from behind to win 4-3.
West Ham led 3-1 early in the second half and appeared to be on track for a crucial away win in the Premier League. However, Alexander Isak’s second penalty of the game, controversially awarded following a VAR review, shifted the tide in Newcastle’s advantage.
Substitute Harvey Barnes scored twice in extra time, first after racing through on goal and then with a spectacular strike from 25 yards. However, the Hammers were incensed that the comeback was triggered by a lenient penalty decision.
On-loan midfielder Phillips attempted to clear the ball from the penalty area, but Gordon got ahead of him, forcing Phillips to strike through the winger’s heel. Many people thought the judgment was unfair and watched Match of the Day to hear the pundits’ opinions.
However, the BBC’s Premier League highlights show, which was anchored by Alex Scott rather than Gary Lineker on Saturday night, overlooked the ruling. Stelling, a former Sky Sports anchor, called the production team’s decision ‘awful’.
Stelling tweeted: “Interesting that MOTD decided the second Newcastle penalty was not worth discussing, despite it being probably the most contentious decision of the weekend.” Not Alex Scott’s fault, by the way; it was just a horrible production decision.”
Newcastle legend Shearer has now joked that it was a “certain penalty” and reminded Stelling that such shows are subject to a very strict time restriction.
On Sunday, the former striker replied to Stelling, saying: “Good morning, Jeff. My hunch is that they didn’t show it since it was a specific punishment, and as you know, time is limited on the show! “I hope everything is well.”
West Ham manager David Moyes believed that referee Rob Jones made the wrong judgment after being advised to check the tape. He stated, “I believe the referee made a couple of decisions regarding penalty kicks. I believe the second one is where Gordon prevents Kalvin Phillips from kicking the ball. I genuinely believe that is the incorrect decision.
“We had so many things that didn’t go in our favour today but there were a lot of good things the players did.”
Newcastle’s Howe stated after the game: “It was an excellent advertisement for the Premier League.” At 3-1 down, it appeared to be a really difficult time in our season, but the players remained calm. They’re terrific professionals, and this is a fantastic win for us.”
