PGMOL chief Howard Webb has acknowledged that referee Michael Oliver made an incorrect decision in showing a red card to Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly during their match against Wolves at Molineux last month. The controversial dismissal, which was later overturned, sparked significant debate within the football community.
The incident, which involved Lewis-Skelly's challenge on Matt Doherty, initially saw VAR uphold Oliver's decision. However, Webb has now conceded that a yellow card would have been the more appropriate sanction. Speaking on Match Officials Mic'd Up, Webb explained, "From the outset, we would prefer a yellow card in this situation." He further elaborated that while the referee perceived the player's movement as having no intention to play the ball, the contact was merely glancing and lacked the "excessive force or brutality" required for a serious foul play designation.
The aftermath of the decision took a dark turn when Oliver and his family became targets of death threats, prompting PGMOL to condemn the abuse directed at the official. The incident also resulted in financial consequences for Arsenal, who were fined £65,000 after nine of their players surrounded Oliver in protest of the decision.
Despite the controversy, Oliver's standing within the Premier League remains strong. The 39-year-old official has since overseen two matches, including the high-profile Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool, after initially returning to action in the Ipswich vs Southampton fixture. His continued appointment to significant matches reflects his status as one of the Premier League's most trusted officials, and he is expected to handle more crucial fixtures as the season progresses.
Webb, while acknowledging the error, defended Oliver against claims of a "really horrendous officiating decision," stating, "I understand why the referee saw this on the day as a serious foul-play action." This measured response highlights the delicate balance between maintaining officiating standards and supporting referees when controversial decisions occur.
