Henderson had a busy first halfHenderson had a busy first half
Henderson had a busy first half | AFP via Getty Images
It was a drama-filled first half in the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium.
Pundits have disagreed over a major incident during Crystal Palace’s FA Cup final with Manchester City. The Eagles are battling for their first-ever major trophy against serial winners City, and they are on the right track at time of writing, which is half-time.
Eberechi Eze turned up again in a big moment to fire Palace into a first-half lead, and it was a first half full of drama. In the 36th minute, City were awarded a penalty when Tyrick Mitchell slid in on Bernardo Silva. A VAR check ensued, of course, but despite visuals seeming to show a touch on the ball from Mitchell, a spot-kick was awarded.
Erling Haaland initially stepped up to take the penalty, but Omar Marmoush convinced the striker to pass over the ball. That proved to be a mistake, with Dean Henderson guessing right and making the save. It was a solid save, but Marmoush struck it at the infamous keepers’ height.
Though, while justice may have been served in the eyes of some, the debate over whether it should have been a penalty rumbles on. Speaking on BBC Sport’s commentary, Alan Shearer said: “The little touch from Bernardo Silva takes the ball away from Tyrick Mitchell. It is a dangerous challenge and an unnecessary one.”
On ITV Sport’s coverage, Ally McCoist was not impressed with the decision, disagreeing with Shearer. He said: “He definitely makes contact with the ball before he makes contact with the player.”
On the save itself, Shearer added: “What a save that is. Dean Henderson doesn't fall for the bluff. He is in control the goalkeeper. A big strong hand to keep it out. Then he gets up quickly again.” On Haaland handing over the ball, the Newcastle United legend added: “I wouldn't be prepared to give up a penalty in a cup final - no chance.”
Roy Keane said of the penalty decision, siding with Shearer: “That’s a daft tackle.”
Henderson was lucky to get away with a red card before the penalty, pawing the ball away from Erling Haaland while outside the box. VAR reviewed it and somehow decided that Henderson was not denying a goalscoring opportunity. That’s the sort of luck Palace are going to need to come out on top at Wembley.
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