(Credit: Getty Images / Sky Sports)

Ben Palmer

Sat 9 August 2025 17:20, UK

Blackburn Rovers were desperately unfortunate not to be awarded a penalty in their loss to West Brom, according to Keith Hackett.

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The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that referee David Webb had made a poor decision on the opening weekend of Championship action.

Valerien Ismael took on his former side at the Hawthorns on 9 August at 3 pm, and suffered a harsh return to the Midlands.

Ryan Mason departed Tottenham to take charge at West Brom.

(Credit: Imago)

Ryan Mason took charge at West Brom this summer and his side opened the scoring after a goalmouth scramble, with Isaac Price prodding home.

But on the stroke of half-time, Rovers had a huge appeal for a penalty waved away by Webb.

This article contains exclusive comments from ex-PGMOL chief, FIFA official and former professional referee Keith Hackett.

Yuki Ohashi connected to a deep ball into the channel on the stroke of half-time and drove towards the penalty area.

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He did so with Torbjorn Heggem holding him back, and despite the size difference, the Japan international looked to have gotten the better of the Baggies’ debutant.

The Danish defender stuck out a leg, sending Ohashi tumbling down to the ground, with a penalty the seemingly obvious outcome.

Valerien Ismael previously managed West Brom.

However, Webb waved away the protestations of the striker and his teammates before blowing for half-time.

Blackburn went on to lose 1-0, a particularly bitter blow given Ismael’s side had enjoyed a stellar pre-season.

Rovers had beaten the likes of Everton and Elche in friendlies, and this was their first loss since a 2-0 Championship defeat to Middlesbrough back in April.

Having reviewed the incident, former PGMOL chief Hackett gave his verdict on Webb’s decision to Football Insider exclusively, saying: “Blackburn can feel aggrieved that a penalty kick was not awarded.

“There is a holding offence which impacts on the forward’s movement.

“Poor decision from the referee not to award a penalty kick.”

Blackburn‘s next fixture will see them take on Bradford City in the Carabao Cup, whilst West Brom will face off against Derby County in the same competition.

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