Keith Hackett explains Lisandro Martinez penalty decision as Man United vs Newcastle footage re-analysed

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Credit: Getty Images / Sky Sports Mon 29 December 2025 8:30, UK Anthony Taylor was spot-on to deny Newcastle United a second-half penalty during their defeat to Man United on Friday.That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that Lisandro Martinez was not fortunate to avoid giving away a spot-kick on 26 December.Patrick Dorgu scored his first goal in Man United colours, as the Red Devils claimed a narrow 1-0 win at Old Trafford, seeing them move up to sixth in the Premier League after the weekend’s action.It was not all plain sailing for the home side, though, with the Magpies creating plenty of chances, especially in the closing stages, but none of Eddie Howe‘s players were able to take them.Based on his previous record, Nick Woltemade likely would have scored from the penalty spot, but it was not to be for the German international.Ruben Amorim masterclass bamboozles Newcastle UnitedNewcastle were stunned by Man United’s formation change, as were most supporters at Old Trafford, with the visitors limited to just three shots on target throughout the 90 minutes. MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Despite the lack of big opportunities, in the 64th minute, Newcastle were adamant that a penalty should have been awarded in their favour against Man United‘s No.6.Martinez was wrestling with Malick Thiaw when the ball struck him on the arm, with immediate calls being made for a spot-kick, but VAR confirmed that Taylor’s decision was the correct one.Howe was extremely vocal about the decision in his post-match press conference, though not nearly as explosive as Sean Dyche, but Hackett believes that the correct decision was reached by those involved.Lisandro Martinez did not deserve to be punished, says Keith HackettHackett, exclusively speaking to Football Insider on The Final Whistle, said: “I wouldn’t give handball here, and I’m quite clear about that.

When we look at handball, it’s a difficult law, even with VAR and replays. “The first thing you’ve got to consider is if it’s deliberate, and one of the key factors there is the movement of the hand or arm towards the ball.

For me, it’s not a penalty. He’s not made his body shape bigger; he’s just trying to get out of the way.”