Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher disagreed with Sean Dyche over a key decision in Everton’s recent defeat to Southampton. Everton’s five-game unbeaten run came to an end at St. Mary’s when a late goal from Adam Armstrong sealed a 1-0 win for the Saints, leaving the Toffees in 16th place, four points above the relegation zone. A win would have pushed them closer to mid-table.
Substitute Beto played an active role in the match, hitting the crossbar, scoring an offside goal, and getting fouled while through on goal. Sky Sports’ Ref Watch analyzed the incidents involving the Portuguese striker, particularly focusing on the foul by Jan Bednarek. Dyche was frustrated that Bednarek only received a yellow card, arguing that Beto would have had a clear chance to score had he not been brought down. “The key decision went against us. I’m surprised it wasn’t a red card. Beto was in his stride and breaking forward, but players who try to stay on their feet don’t seem to get decisions,” Dyche commented.
Gallagher provided insight into the referee’s reasoning on Ref Watch, pointing out the presence of a covering player. He explained, “This is about the covering defender. While Beto was moving inside, the officials believed the covering player would reach him in time, making it a possible, rather than clear, goal-scoring opportunity.”
The incident occurred in the 76th minute with the score still 0-0, making it a pivotal moment in the match. Despite the defeat, Beto’s performance hinted at his potential, possibly earning him a starting spot over Dominic Calvert-Lewin in Everton’s upcoming match against West Ham United as he looks for his first league start of the season.
