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Veteran Referee Keith Hackett Validates VAR Decisions in Nottingham Forest’s Narrow Victory Over Ipswich
In a detailed analysis of the recent Championship clash between Nottingham Forest and Ipswich Town, respected former FIFA referee Keith Hackett has publicly endorsed the match officials’ critical penalty decisions during the 1-0 contest.
The match, which took place on 30 November at The City Ground, hinged on a crucial first-half penalty awarded when Ipswich’s Sammie Szmodics was judged to have caught Jota Silva’s leg while attempting to win the ball. Striker Chris Wood confidently converted the spot-kick, securing Forest’s narrow triumph.
A subsequent penalty appeal involving Wood was swiftly reviewed by VAR official Tony Harrington, who ultimately decided against awarding a second penalty. Despite initial protests, Hackett confirmed both decisions were technically accurate.
“Referee Harrington was correct in his initial penalty award,” Hackett explained in his exclusive assessment. “The follow-up VAR review was equally sound, with no grounds for a second penalty.”
The victory continues Forest’s impressive season under manager Nuno Espirito Santo, positioning them just a point away from Champions League qualification spots. For struggling Ipswich, languishing near the bottom of the table, such narrow defeats could potentially increase pressure ahead of the January transfer window.
Wood’s continued goal-scoring form remains a bright spot for Forest, highlighting his growing reputation as a reliable attacking threat this season.
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