'I'm Surprised' - Ex-PGMOL Chief Makes Feelings Clear Over Wolves vs West Ham Penalty Controversy

In a heated debate following West Ham's dramatic 2-1 victory over Wolves on January 4, 2026, at Molineux Stadium, former PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited) chief Keith Hackett has voiced his astonishment over a controversial late penalty decision that sealed the win for the Hammers.

The match, a crucial Premier League clash, saw tensions boil over in the 89th minute when Wolves' defender Mario Lemina appeared to clip West Ham's Jarrod Bowen inside the penalty area. Referee Michael Oliver pointed to the spot, and Bowen converted the kick to hand David Moyes' side all three points. Wolves manager Gary O'Neil was left fuming post-match, labeling the call "embarrassing" and calling for VAR improvements, while fans protested on the pitch, delaying the final whistle.

"I'm surprised," Hackett told Football Insider. "From the angles I've seen, Lemina gets the ball first with a clean challenge. It's a poor decision by Oliver, and VAR should have intervened. This kind of error undermines the game's integrity."

Hackett, who oversaw Premier League refereeing for over a decade until 2010, dissected the incident, emphasizing that replays showed minimal contact after Lemina's initial touch on the ball. He criticized VAR officials for not prompting a review, suggesting "tunnel vision" in the stockroom. The ex-referee boss called for better training and accountability, warning that such blunders fuel fan distrust amid a season already plagued by officiating controversies.

Wolves sit 14th in the table, while West Ham climb to 9th. The club has lodged a formal complaint with the PGMOL, demanding clarity on the decision-making process. PGMOL has yet to respond publicly, but insiders hint at an internal review. This incident reignites calls for independent VAR oversight in English football.

(Word count: 298)