Gary O’Neil intends to approach PGMOL chief Howard Webb for explanations following Wolves’ contentious denial of a stoppage time equalizer. Despite being prepared to express regret for his post match interaction with the referee.
The Wolves manager expressed frustration after VAR intervened to disallow Max Kilman’s 99th-minute goal at Molineux. Referee Tony Harrington consulted the pitchside monitor and ruled out the goal, citing offside against substitute Tawanda Chirewa for standing close to goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski.
Following the final whistle, O’Neil and several Wolves players engaged with the match official, with O’Neil later vocalizing his discontent. Recognizing the potential consequences of his initial reaction, O’Neil is nonetheless willing to apologize as he seeks clarification on the decision that went against Wolves.
He stated: “I would like to understand their perspective on the matter. If they believe I am mistaken, I would like to know why. However, the broader issue for me is the need for improved officiating.”
O’Neil continued: “I am unsure if Howard Webb will be willing to speak with me. If I have offended the officials, and even if I do speak with Webb, I am uncertain what resolution it would yield. If Harrington files a report and I am reprimanded, I accept it; I have faced reprimands before, If I overstepped, I am prepared to apologize, but my actions were based on my emotions at the time.”
Wolves have encountered several contentious VAR decisions this season, with the incident against. Manchester United on the opening weekend being particularly notable. Despite receiving an apology following that incident, Wolves continue to feel aggrieved by such decisions.
O’Neil acknowledged: “I empathize with my players’ frustration. It is challenging for me to convincingly defend the decisions made. While I have previously dissuaded them from taking action, I cannot expect them to remain passive this time. We will assess their sentiments in the coming week.”
Following the defeat at Molineux, O’Neil criticized the decision, describing it as “possibly the worst I have ever seen,” questioning the officials’ understanding of the game if they deemed Chirewa offside.
Despite the setback, Wolves remain determined to pursue European qualification, with the defeat hampering their late-season aspirations.
Leave a Reply