Former Premier League referee responds to Ashley Young’s Newcastle United penalty groan

Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher says the decision to award Newcastle United a penalty against Aston Villa was the correct call. Callum Wilson opened the scoring from the spot as the Magpies won 4-0 at St James’ Park.

Miguel Almiron’s shot hit Ashley Young’s arm as the Villa left-back dived to block the Paraguayan’s effort. Referee Paul Tierney showed no hesitation in pointing to the spot but Young moaned after the game “he is not sure how you are supposed to defend anymore”.

Young told BBC Sport: “I’m not sure how you’re supposed to defend anymore. The referee said that’s the rule but unless you’re putting your arms by your side, it’s not the right way to defend so you’ve got to defend in the way I did.”

During the latest edition of Sky Sports’ Ref Watch, Gallagher reviewed the first half incident and explained why the penalty was given. Gallagher said: “One thing the referees have been really consistent on this year is if the arm is raised above the shoulder, they’re going to give it.

“You see his arm is clearly up, he blocks the cross. 95 per-cent of times this season it’s been penalised. The ones we talk about are the ones that aren’t because it’s such a difference of opinion.”

Wilson directed the penalty straight down the middle as substitute goalkeeper Robin Olsen dived the wrong way. That broke Villa’s resolve as another goal from Wilson, plus Joelinton and Miguel Almiron in the second half, saw the Magpies record their fifth win in six games and maintain their position in the top four.