Ref’s Chief Webb Defends Officials Regarding Dalot Incident

Webb Stands Firm on Referee Decisions

The head of referees in the Premier League, Howard Webb, has dismissed assertions that officials erred by not expelling Diogo Dalot during the recent Manchester derby.

Dalot received a yellow card in the 11th minute while participating in Manchester United’s victory over Manchester City with a score of 2-0, after executing a high challenge against Jeremy Doku.

The Portuguese defender attempted to intercept the ball by extending his leg and inadvertently struck Doku’s knee with his studs. The video assistant referee (VAR), Craig Pawson, backed on-field referee Anthony Taylor’s decision to issue a yellow card, deeming the contact as “glancing and not excessively forceful.”

Webb emphasized that the analysis of the incident using slow-motion replays has been overemphasized and believes a yellow card was a suitable resolution.

“The on-field officials observed Dalot’s actions, noting how he reached out with his foot, touched the ball, and then made contact with Doku,” Webb explained during a segment called Match Officials Mic’d Up. He added, “They considered this a reckless act, meriting a yellow card.”

‘Leave it to the Referee’s Judgment’

Former players have suggested that Dalot should have faced a red card. Alan Shearer, the former England striker, voiced his opinion on BBC Sport, stating, “In my view, VAR did not handle that correctly. To me, it was a clear red card.”

He elaborated, “Regardless of whether the contact was merely ‘glancing’. I can see why the referee might have missed it during the match, but given that VAR has two professionals reviewing it, it really should have been a straightforward decision to issue a red card.”

In contrast, Webb maintains that the decision made on the pitch should remain and that VAR’s inaction was justified. “While it could have been a red, it’s essential to assess it at full speed,” he stated.

He continued, “Ultimately, I believe it was appropriate to respect the on-field referee’s decision. Had a red card been shown, I would have supported that as well.”

Regarding excessive force, Webb mentioned that opinions vary, saying, “Some will argue there was excessive force; I’m not entirely convinced, but I acknowledge that there are differing viewpoints.”

Webb concluded by affirming that the decision should stand, reinforcing that meddling with the video review could complicate matters unnecessarily.