Breaking News:Mike Dean reacts to Everton v Crystal Palace controversy live on Sky
Mike Dean believes James Tarkowski fairly won the ball after a challenge on Jean-Philippe Mateta in the Everton win against Crystal Palace on Saturday (28 September).
The Palace forward managed to find himself on a one-on-one with Jarrad Branthwaite, chopping inside before Tarkowski stole the ball with what Clinton Morrison described as a “strong tackle” in the 2-1 win.
With referee Andrew Madley seeing no issue with the incident, VAR also checked and confirmed no foul for Tarkowski, much to the relief of Goodison Park.
Speaking live via Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday [28 September], Morrison said: “It’s a strong tackle from Tarkowski. It’s a long ball over the top, Mateta chops inside Branthwaite, and it’s a very strong tackle. Mateta was down for a bit and the VAR checked it, not being a penalty.
Mike Dean simply replied: “He’s played the ball.”
James Tarkowski escapes further punishment after early Crystal Palace opener v Everton
Given the Toffees’ problems in defence so far this season, a sending-off for Tarkowski would have been catastrophic for Dyche and his team after going a goal down quite early to the Eagles.
VAR is often criticised for its poor decisions, especially in the Premier League, but the technology has been used correctly in this situation, leaving Tarkowski on the pitch after a recovering tackle.
Of course, the return of Branthwaite comes as a huge boost to the Merseyside club, but it has quickly become apparent that one defender being available again is not going to fix all problems.
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Everton James Tarkowski
Everton defender James Tarkowski
The Toffees’ defensive record was exemplary last season, having only conceded more goals than the top three teams in the division, but scoring goals was the issue.
With Dominic Calvert-Lewin opening his account rather quickly this term, and also having multiple chances to extend that record, issues seem to have reversed at Goodison Park, and this win was huge for everyone at the club.
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