Mike Dean has weighed in on Brentford’s penalty appeal during their 1-1 draw with West Ham United on Saturday, 28 September.
Julen Lopetegui’s West Ham side added another point to their tally, but it was a largely uninspiring performance at the GTECH Community Stadium.
Brentford took an early lead, with Bryan Mbeumo scoring just 38 seconds in. However, Tomas Soucek equalised to level the scores.
The game’s outcome might have been different had Brentford been awarded a penalty during a contentious moment.
Former referee Mike Dean, speaking on Sky Sports News [28 September, 16:53], backed the decision to wave away the penalty claims.
“Janelt has gone to have a shot, a player has come in behind him and put his foot in front of him and he’s kicked the back of his foot and then he’s stubbed his toe on the floor,” Dean explained. “So for me, correct decision on field and VAR has agreed with the referee’s decision.”
West Ham Escape Late Defeat
Simon Hooper’s decision not to award the penalty seemed fair, but it didn’t stop West Ham fans from feeling anxious as they awaited the final call.
A late spot kick could have turned the game on its head, adding to Lopetegui’s frustrations as he continues to struggle since replacing David Moyes.
Although West Ham avoided defeat, Lopetegui’s side arguably deserved more from the game but failed to create many clear chances.
The decision to substitute Mohammed Kudus at halftime and later Lucas Paqueta raised eyebrows, as their attacking influence was missed during crucial moments.
Defensively, West Ham performed solidly, with Jean-Clair Todibo and Max Kilman impressing at the back. While it wasn’t the most thrilling contest, Lopetegui will likely use this result as an opportunity to regroup and reset as he seeks to find his strongest side ahead of the next Premier League fixtures.