Former Premier League referee delivers confusing verdict on disallowed Newcastle United goal

Former Premier League referee Peter Walton believes the controversial decision to disallow an own-goal by Crystal Palace defender Tyrick Mitchell at Newcastle United was correct.

However, he also conceded that the circumstances surrounding the decision were ‘strange’.

On a weekend of questionable decisions involving VAR, all focus shone on St James Park when Eddie Howe’s side looked to have taken the lead against a dogged Eagles outfit.

A Sven Botman header into the six-yard box made its way towards Magpies midfielder Joe Willock but he seemed to be pushed in the back by England defender Mitchell.

The ball evaded Willock and struck the Eagles full-back before nestling in the back of the net.

A goal was initially awarded, but VAR official Lee Mason suggested match referee Michael Salisbury should take a second look at the decision.

After making his way to the pitchside monitor and watching numerous replays, Salisbury invoked the anger of the St James Park faithful by reversing his decision and disallowing the goal.

In the aftermath of the controversial call, Walton told BT Sport: “That’s what the VAR is looking at (Willock being fouled), also does that mean the foul onto the goalkeeper is negated?

“Now, I don’t think this goal will be allowed, I think the foul will give a foul against the goalkeeper, even though you can argue Willock has been pushed himself.

“It is a strange one but I think the defender for Palace doesn’t see the collision with the goalkeeper and he disappointed with his own defending but hey, these things go for you, these things go against you.”

Sunday afternoon brought confirmation the Premier League has asked the PGMOL to review the decision and one that denied West Ham United a point in their visit to London rivals Chelsea.