Brighton Boss Defends Call as Both Sides Reflect on Missed Opportunities
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta voiced his frustration over referee Anthony Taylor’s decision to award Brighton & Hove Albion a penalty in their 1-1 Premier League draw at the Amex Stadium.
The Gunners took an early lead thanks to 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, who scored a stunning goal past Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen. However, Brighton equalized in the second half when Joao Pedro converted a penalty following a clash between Pedro and Arsenal’s William Saliba in the box.
The decision, supported by VAR, left Arteta bewildered. “We were really disappointed with the penalty decision—very disappointed,” Arteta told Sky Sports. “Saliba touches the ball. I’ve never seen a call like this in my life. For me, it’s not a penalty.”
Arsenal’s Frustrations Mount
The draw leaves Arsenal five points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, who have two games in hand. Arteta lamented his team’s inability to capitalize on a strong first half and expressed dissatisfaction with their second-half performance.
“Disappointed, because we wanted to win,” Arteta said. “We started with a really good goal and some strong moments. But in the second half, we gave away too many simple balls and couldn’t dominate the game. We didn’t do the simple things well enough against a competitive team.”
Arteta also acknowledged the challenges of a packed schedule. “We’re playing every three days, and I understand how much we want to win. But today, the consistency and quality weren’t there.”
Brighton’s Perspective
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler felt his team deserved more from the match and stood by Taylor’s penalty decision.
“We think we deserved more,” Hurzeler told BBC Match of the Day. “We had the better chances but couldn’t find the second goal. Still, we take the positives.”
Addressing the penalty controversy, Hurzeler argued the decision was fair. “It was a clear penalty. If it were another part of the body, everyone would agree. Joao Pedro placed the ball with his head, and Saliba arrived too late. It was the right call.”
The Title Race Tightens
With Liverpool facing Manchester United on Sunday, the Reds have an opportunity to extend their lead to eight points over Arsenal. For Arteta’s side, the result against Brighton highlights the fine margins and challenges in a competitive title race.
As both managers reflect on the game, the debate over the penalty underscores the intensity and stakes of the Premier League season.
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