Ex-PGMOL chief Keith Hackett slams Crystal Palace goal against Liverpool
Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett has declared that Daniel Munoz’s goal for Crystal Palace against Liverpool on Saturday should have been disallowed due to an injury to goalkeeper Freddie Woodman.
The hosts eventually secured a comfortable 3-1 victory to move up to fourth in the Premier League table.
However, the performance at Anfield was temporarily derailed by refereeing controversy and off-pitch tensions.
Alexander Isak and Andrew Robertson had already given the Merseyside outfit a commanding first-half lead following a blistering counter-attack.
Referee under fire
After the interval, an incident involving match official Andy Madley left Reds manager Arne Slot visibly furious.
The controversy stemmed from the build-up to the visitors’ only strike of the afternoon.
Third-choice shot-stopper Woodman went down injured in his penalty area while play was still active.
Colombian full-back Munoz took full advantage of the situation, pausing to assess his options before calmly lifting the ball into the net.
‘Frankly unacceptable’ decision
There has been a long-standing debate regarding the level of protection afforded to goalkeepers during live match scenarios.
Hackett firmly believes this weekend’s incident represents a clear failure in current officiating protocols.
“The Liverpool goalkeeper went to ground, clearly injured, and attracting the referee’s attention is the point when Andy Madley should have stopped the game.”
“Controversially, he allowed play to continue. This is frankly unacceptable.”
Champions League qualification secured
Despite the bizarre concession, the home side regained control when Florian Wirtz fired in a brilliant third goal off the post.
The result marks a third consecutive victory for the club, effectively guaranteeing their place in next season’s Champions League.
Off the pitch, an uneasy atmosphere remains following supporter protests over rising ticket costs.
Club chief executive Billy Hogan reportedly drew heavy criticism after appearing to laugh during the fan demonstrations.
