Summary
In his first Premier League game, referee Farai Hallam decided not to give Manchester City a penalty after reviewing a handball incident using the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system. He stuck to his original call that the ball hit the Wolverhampton player's arm, but it was in a natural position.
Key Facts
- Farai Hallam made his Premier League debut as a referee during Manchester City's match against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
- Hallam did not award a penalty to Manchester City after a possible handball by a Wolves player in the first half.
- The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) prompted Hallam to review the decision, but he upheld his original call.
- Former Premier League assistant referee Darren Cann supported Hallam's decision, agreeing the arm was in a natural position.
- Hallam's debut was praised by some fans and commentators for his decisive handling of the situation.
- The incident involved Omar Marmoush, a Manchester City player, whose appeal for a penalty was denied.
- Hallam started his refereeing career after being let go from Stevenage's football academy and quickly rose through the ranks.
- Wolverhampton's manager, Rob Edwards, agreed with the decision, while Manchester City's manager, Pep Guardiola, had mixed feelings.
