Ex-PGMOL boss blasts Stuart Attwell as Joao Pedro controversy analysed vs Brentford

Ex-PGMOL Boss Blasts Referee John Brooks Over João Pedro Elbow Incident in Brighton vs Brentford Draw

In a heated Brighton 0-0 Brentford Premier League clash on December 27, controversy erupted in the 75th minute when Brighton forward João Pedro appeared to swing an elbow at Brentford's Yehor Yarmoliuk. Referee John Brooks issued a yellow card to Yarmoliuk for pulling back Pedro on the halfway line but took no action against the Brighton player. VAR official Chris Kavanagh reviewed the incident for possible violent conduct and ultimately decided against a red card intervention.

Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett has fiercely criticized Brooks, arguing he "should have reviewed the incident" himself before VAR involvement. Hackett labeled the elbow swing a "dangerous and violent action," insisting football's rules deem such moves—whether contact is made or not—a sending offense. "You can't swing an arm to hit someone," echoed Brentford manager Thomas Frank, who was incensed by the non-call.

Brighton boss Fabian Hürzeler defended Pedro, claiming it was merely an attempt to "get free from someone" and not red-card worthy. However, analysts contend the VAR's threshold was too lenient; the motion was reckless, warranting on-field scrutiny and likely a dismissal. This mirrors broader VAR debates, as seen in a separate Ipswich penalty vs. Chelsea, where minimal contact sparked similar uncertainty.

The decision highlights ongoing inconsistencies in officiating. Pedro escaped punishment, but experts like Hackett blast Brooks for failing to pause play and assess, potentially missing a "clear error" VAR was designed to catch. Brentford fans fumed, while Brighton celebrated avoiding a numerical disadvantage in a gritty stalemate. Such incidents fuel calls for stricter elbow protocols and proactive refereeing.

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