'Act of simulation' - PGMOL insider blames VAR for wrongly-disallowed Burnley goal v Sunderland
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net.
Credit: beIN Sports
Harri Burton
Sat 23 August 2025 16:50, UK
Burnley have every right to feel disappointed after Lyle Foster’s goal was disallowed against Sunderland, according to Keith Hackett.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that Jenson Seelt went to ground far too easily under a challenge from the South African forward at Turf Moor on Saturday, 23 August.
Scott Parker‘s side thought they had opened the scoring in the 18th minute, with Foster about to wheel away in celebration, though Michael Salisbury had already whistled to award a free-kick in the opposite direction.
In the build-up, there was a clear tussle between striker and centre-back, and although it appeared to be a good challenge from the opposite duo, the Clarets were left frustrated by the incident.
This article contains exclusive comments from ex-PGMOL chief, FIFA official and former professional referee Keith Hackett.
It was some much-needed relief for the Black Cats, who lost Dan Ballard after just eight minutes to injury, with Seelt being called upon by Regis Le Bris to replace him at the back before the incident unfolded.
MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES
Ballard’s performance against West Ham earned him the Man of the Match award in their opening Premier League game last weekend, but he could not even last 10 minutes against Burnley.
The 25-year-old likely would have dealt with the situation much better, but even with Seelt in the centre of defence, the Black Cats avoided conceding a first-half opener to Parker’s side.
Scott Parker’s side were left frustrated by Michael Salisbury.
(Credit Imago)
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the disallowed goal, the former referee said: “Burnley have every right to be disappointed by the player [Seelt] going to ground, buying the free-kick.
The goal should have been allowed.”
The Clarets next face Derby County in the Carabao Cup before travelling to Old Trafford to face Man United in the Premier League on Saturday, 30 August, with the international break after that.
Related Posts