Arsenal fans on social media criticized the referee when giving West Ham 11m, they said that before Declan Rice let the ball touch his hand.
In the 32nd minute, midfielder Lucas Paqueta was clearly cut down by midfielder Gabriel Magalhaes in the penalty area. On the penalty spot, striker Said Benrahma made no mistake, fooling goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale to shorten the score to 1-2 for West Ham.
Arsenal fans on social media criticized the referee when giving West Ham 11m, they said that before Declan Rice let the ball touch his hand. The West Ham captain – and Arsenal transfer target – has won possession from Thomas Partey.
However, slow-motion footage appeared to show the ball hitting Rice’s arm, prompting Arsenal fans to complain that the referee should not have awarded the home team the penalty. One Arsenal fan wrote: “Clearly VAR against Arsenal, the ball hit Rice’s hand.”
Another added: “Rice controlled the ball with his hands. It’s ridiculous that the goal is still awarded.” A third added: “I wonder why it’s not replayed from different angles. . It was clearly a handball.”
Arteta was asked about the situation in his post-match press conference but he refused to complain about the decision. He said: “I haven’t seen the picture and it’s too late now. Honestly, I don’t want to use it as an excuse.”
Former Premier League referee Mark Halsey said that the referees were right when giving West Ham 11m. According to him, Rice did not intentionally use his hands to play the ball and the situation continued to be normal.