ARSENAL fans believe West Ham’s first goal should not have stood as they claim the ball struck Declan Rice’s arm in the build-up.
Said Benrahma converted the penalty to spark West Ham’s comeback, with the match ending 2-2 to dent Arsenal’s title hopes.
Gabriel brought down Lucas Paqueta in the penalty area and there appeared to be slight contact despite the Brazilian withdrawing his leg from the tackle.
Many Gooners weren’t convinced, and some then felt even more aggrieved when they spotted Rice’s earlier involvement.
The West Ham captain – and Arsenal transfer target – won possession after Thomas Partey failed in his attempt to flick the ball past him.
Howeve,r replays appeared to show the ball touching Rice’s arm, leading Arsenal fans to bemoan the ref’s failure to award a free-kick.
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One Arsenal fan wrote: “Clear handball missed by Var.”
Another added: “He literally controlled the ball with his hand. A handball. Just as bad as hitting the ball with your hand, till it changes direction.”
A third said: “I wonder why it was not replayed from different angles.”
And another commented: “That is a clear handball.”
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Arteta was asked about the incident in his post-match press conference but he refused to complain about the decision.
He said: “I haven’t seen the image and it’s too late now. I don’t want to use it as an excuse, honestly.”
Former Premier League referee Mark Halsey told SunSport that the officials were RIGHT to give the pen.
He said: “There were suggestions Declan Rice handled the ball in the build up, but even if there was contact, it looked to be accidental and accidental handball is not an offence.
“VAR would not get involved in that situation because it was subjective.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
