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West Ham’s controversial 1–1 draw at Brighton has sparked fresh outrage after former PGMOL boss and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett delivered a scathing assessment of Simon Hooper’s handling of a decisive late incident.
Hackett, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed Hooper failed to apply “basic common sense” during the build-up to Brighton’s stoppage-time equaliser — and insists the goal should have been ruled out.
Brighton’s Last-Minute Goal Under Fresh Scrutiny
West Ham had taken the lead through a revitalised performance from Jarrod Bowen, who responded impressively after heavy criticism during the Liverpool match. But the Hammers were left fuming when Georginio Rutter bundled in a late equaliser amid chaos inside the penalty area.
The controversy centres on two moments:
1. A possible handball: Initial replays suggested the ball may have struck Rutter’s arm as the move unfolded.
2. A dangerous high boot: Charalampos Kostoulas’ acrobatic attempt appeared to catch West Ham defender Konstantinos Mavropanos near the head — sparking immediate protests from the Greek centre-back.
Despite a VAR review, the goal was allowed to stand, leaving supporters baffled and manager Nuno Espírito Santo demanding answers.
Keith Hackett: ‘It should have been punished’
Hackett, analysing the footage on The Final Whistle, said the officiating team missed a clear offence:
> “That boot must have brushed his face. That’s dangerous play and should have been punished. No question.”
He argued that the handball incident was straightforward, but the high boot alone should have led to the goal being ruled out — and was shocked both Hooper and VAR failed to intervene.
> “In football, there has to be common sense. If it looks wrong, it is wrong — and that looked wrong to me immediately. I’m surprised it was allowed to pass.”
West Ham Left Feeling Wronged
The decision has reignited debate around Premier League officiating, particularly after several contentious calls this season. Brighton supporters celebrated the late equaliser, but West Ham fans were left in disbelief that such a clear act of dangerous play was overlooked.
Mavropanos — one of the club’s most consistent performers this season — was visibly furious as he argued with the referee, but his protests went unanswered.
As Nuno Espírito Santo continues to call for clarity, Hackett’s strong words are likely to add further pressure on officiating standards as the Premier League faces yet another VAR storm.
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