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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Sport
Kadeem Simmonds

'My question is' - Pundit calls for change in VAR practice after Everton controversy

Former Premier League goalkeeper Paul Robinson has called for referees to address the public after games and explain their decisions following Everton's 1-0 defeat to Man City.

Frank Lampard's side were denied what looked to be a certain penalty when the ball struck Rodri's arm late on in the game.

Referee Paul Tierney decided not to point to the spot and VAR official Chris Kavanagh agreed with Tierney's call on the pitch after a lengthy check.

Bizarrely however, PGMOL managing director Mike Riley has since apologised to manager Lampard and Bill Kenwright over the Toffees not being awarded a penalty.

READ MORE: Mike Riley rings Frank Lampard and Bill Kenwright to make double Everton apology

READ MORE: Frank Lampard drops Everton changes hint and explains what is a 'big deal' for his players

As is customary, Tierney did not clarify the reason for not awarding the penalty after the match and Robinson believes that officials should be made to explain themselves after games.

“There was so much riding on that game," Robinson told Football Insider.

“Decisions like that have a massive impacts on teams. They are season-defining moments.

“I understand why Frank was so intense after the game. If you asked Frank now, he would have the same opinion but he may have put his point across differently.

“My question is, why can’t referees talk to us? Why can’t they speak to us after the game?

“It is so frustrating because we are left to discuss for days why the decision was made. If a referee comes out and explains why, it would easier for us to understand it all. It would be better for the game.”

Everton are currently one point above the relegation zone having played two more games than 18th-placed Burnley.

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