Ex-PGMOL Chief Makes Feelings Clear Over West Ham Disallowed Goal vs Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest were saved by an incorrect decision as Crysencio Summerville’s goal was ruled out for West Ham on Tuesday, according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett.[2]

Hackett exclusively told Football Insider that referee Tony Harrington and VAR were wrong to disallow the goal in the 51st minute, punishing Taty Castellanos for offside in the build-up. West Ham, leading 1-0, saw Summerville smash the ball past Matz Sels, but VAR intervened after Nikola Milenkovic’s tackle appeared to play the ball into the offside player.[2]

West Ham Hard Done By

Fans erupted in fury on social media, arguing the goal should stand per IFAB laws, as the ball was last touched by a Forest defender. Hackett echoed this, stating adamantly: “There is no doubt that the ball was played by a Nottingham Forest player when challenging for the ball.” The decision stung further when Forest equalized just four minutes later in the tense Premier League six-pointer at the London Stadium.[2]

Both teams are embroiled in a relegation battle, heightening the controversy’s impact. West Ham supporters feel robbed, with replays fueling demands for better officiating.[2]

Nuno’s Future in Doubt

Adding intrigue, Football Insider reported pre-match that West Ham are poised to sack manager Nuno Espirito Santo. With only two wins in 16 games since replacing Graham Potter in September, a loss to his former club Forest could be his final nail in the coffin for David Sullivan and Karren Brady.[2]

Hackett’s verdict underscores ongoing VAR debates, potentially swaying opinions in the relegation dogfight.[2]