Ian Wright reacts as Match of the Day play controversial footage of West Ham United incident v Luton Town
Ian Wright has shared his view on Luton Town’s late penalty call against West Ham United, claiming the decision not to award a spot kick was correct.
On BBC’s Match Of The Day (2 September), footage was shown of the closing moments at Kenilworth Road on Saturday, where Hammers midfielder James Ward-Prowse made contact with the ball with his outstretched arm in Luton’s penalty area while the Hammers were under pressure to retain their 2-1 lead.
After a VAR check, no penalty was given, angering the home support. Wright suggests that while he didn’t think it was a penalty, he would not have been shocked to see it given considering “some of the decisions” made by officials in the past.
Speaking on Match Of The Day, Wright said: “It probably would have been harsh, but with the way referees are and what they do with VAR, I wouldn’t have been surprised if they gave it.
“I would have been devastated myself if I’m West Ham and they give that. But at the same time, you’ve seen some of the decisions that are being made, you could easily see that given.
“But, I don’t think that’s a pen, I don’t think it’s far enough away.”
Late drama
Luton Town fans would have left their first home game in the Premier League disappointed after yet another loss. They will feel doubly hurt after late drama failed to reward them with a penalty.
Mads Juel Andersen gave the Hatters late hope after pulling a goal back to make it 2-1. West Ham faced a wave of pressure up until the final whistle and were lucky to escape with all three points despite their significantly better performance.
Luton fans will feel hard done by as many softer decisions have been given, but Wright is correct in predicting West Ham’s potential anger at the decision went against them.
David Moyes’ side controlled the game, with 61% possession and three shots on target to Luton’s one. But succumbing to late pressure can happen, and if the Hammers faced a stronger side they may have thrown away the chance at three points. [SofaScore]
For now, West Ham will be happy with their excellent start to the season and significantly improved form after last season but may breathe a sigh of relief after this incident.
In other West Ham news, a new Hammers signing was given reassurances by the club after the player raised his concerns.