Everton’s victory over Ipswich Town was a straightforward affair, but things could have taken a different turn if not for VAR’s intervention, which overturned referee Michael Oliver’s initial penalty decision.
The controversy began when Jack Clarke dribbled into the box and collided with Dwight McNeil, falling to the ground. Oliver immediately pointed to the spot, awarding Ipswich a penalty.
However, VAR intervened and advised the referee to review the incident on the pitch-side monitor. Replays revealed that Clarke had, in fact, kicked McNeil rather than the other way around.
It was a twist of fate for Everton, particularly after they were denied a penalty for a similar incident involving Dominic Calvert-Lewin in their previous Premier League clash against Newcastle United. This time, fortune favoured Sean Dyche’s side.
Kieran McKenna fumes over Ipswich penalty decision:
Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna was left frustrated by the key refereeing decision, which he believes cost his side a crucial moment in the game.
Speaking to BBC Sport, the 38-year-old expressed his disappointment, particularly as Ipswich failed to create many clear opportunities beyond a few half chances in the first half.
“Jack [Clarke] rolls inside the box, he is around the penalty spot and about to shoot, and Dwight McNeil lunges his leg across the line of the ball and Jack’s swing of the ball when he is about to probably score,” McKenna said.
“Of course he kicks Dwight McNeil, but I understand you can’t lunge across the ball like that when someone is in their backswing. I’m sure Sean will see it differently, but in terms of clear and obvious—unless I’m wrong—I can’t see how that is clear and obvious. It’s a really debatable decision, but from everything I’ve heard, they wouldn’t go against that decision.”
Alan Shearer weighs in:
Alan Shearer also shared his thoughts on the contentious penalty incident, adding to the post-match debate over whether Ipswich were unfairly denied a spot-kick.
Everton’s performance earns them the points:
Regardless of the penalty drama, Everton were well worth their three points. For the first time this season, the Toffees outperformed their opponents on expected goals, creating three big chances and controlling 45% of possession, according to Sofascore.
Ipswich had their moments, especially in the dying stages when Everton invited pressure, but Sean Dyche’s men held firm. With a three-man midfield and a resolute back five, Everton’s defence proved unbreakable, even when Ipswich began to apply late pressure.
The penalty debate feels somewhat ironic given Everton’s frustrations with officiating in their previous match. However, the outcome remained the same—Everton secured the victory they needed and deserved.
The result will provide a much-needed boost for Dyche’s side as they look to build momentum in the coming fixtures. For Ipswich, though, it’s a tough pill to swallow, with McKenna’s side left to reflect on what might have been.