Ex-refs chief: Craig Pawson exposed as Xavi Simons avoids sanction vs Aston Villa
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Ex-Refs Chief Craig Pawson Exposed as Xavi Simons Avoids Sanction vs Aston Villa
In a heated FA Cup third-round clash on January 10, 2026, at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Aston Villa defeated Tottenham 2-1, advancing while sparking fury over referee Craig Pawson's decisions—particularly his failure to punish Xavi Simons for a reckless challenge.[1][2]
The match began controversially just three minutes in when Simons left a heavy boot on Aston Villa's Matty Cash, leaving the defender in a heap. Replays showed a dangerous foul, yet Pawson issued no card, despite Simons' recent red card against Liverpool. Minutes later, Tottenham's Joao Palhinha made a strong tackle on Villa's Boubacar Kamara, forcing the midfielder off injured after nine minutes—another incident Hackett deemed "reckless" and warranting a yellow.[1][2]
Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett slammed Pawson exclusively to media outlets, questioning: "What is he doing? Two clear reckless challenges that should have received yellow cards. One resulted in a player being substituted." He accused Pawson of failing to assert authority early, allowing tensions to escalate.[1][5]
Further errors compounded the criticism. Pawson overlooked a blatant foul on Simons during a Tottenham attack, denying Spurs a dangerous free-kick outside Villa's penalty area just before an offside goal was disallowed. Later, Villa's Ollie Watkins escaped sanction—or worse, a red—for a clear kick-out at Palhinha, swiping the midfielder's legs amid rising tempers.[2]
Villa struck first through Emiliano Buendia in the 22nd minute, capitalizing on Donyell Malen's play. Tottenham pushed back with efforts from Simons and Wilson Odobert, but Pedro Porro's goal-line clearance preserved Villa's lead. Post-whistle, a mass brawl erupted involving Watkins, Morgan Rogers, Palhinha, and staff, with Pawson intervening late.[3]
The loss piles pressure on Tottenham boss Thomas Frank (two wins in 13), while Unai Emery's Villa progresses. Fans raged online, with Pawson's leniency—especially toward Simons—drawing "exposed" accusations from ex-refs like Hackett.[4]
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