David Moyes Asserts PGMO Reluctant to Explain Controversial Decisions

David Moyes has claimed that the Professional Game Match Officials is hesitant to communicate with managers because a high number of refereeing decisions this season have been difficult to explain. The Everton manager said he “half choked” when Fulham were awarded what proved to be a decisive penalty against Nottingham Forest on Monday.

Lack of Uniformity in Spot-Kick Decisions Brought to Light

Everton were denied a penalty on Saturday for a comparable incident during their home defeat by Arsenal. Moyes did not criticise the decision at the time but, in light of Fulham’s penalty, feels the inconsistency of referees can not be ignored.

“I was half choking last night when I saw the decision given and ours wasn’t,” said the Everton manager. “It feels as though certain clubs get those decisions and other clubs don’t. We seem to be on the latter side of that.”

Past Incidents and Growing Frustration

Moyes also referenced an previous case in the season at Brentford involving Virgil van Dijk which was very comparable. “It was later it was given. It is frustrating it wasn’t given on the night and we are reviewing other instances which have been overlooked,” he added.

Lack of Dialogue with Officiating Authorities

Questioned on whether he intended to present his case with referee chiefs, Moyes expressed additional concern. “I don’t really know,” he said. “They are not accommodating whatever you want. They are unwilling to have a conversation about it really. They might engage, but they don’t want to because they’re finding it probably very difficult to explain things.”

This stance from the officials highlights a wider issue of openness and accountability in the game’s officiating, as per the long-serving coach.

Emily Brown
Emily Brown

A passionate writer and productivity coach dedicated to helping others achieve their goals through mindful practices.