Manager Mikel Arteta has praised referee Chris Kavanagh for the “brave” decision he made in disallowing West Ham’s late goal in Arsenal’s 1-0 win on Sunday.
Arsenal moved five points clear at the top of the Premier League after a narrow victory at the London Stadium, where Leandro Trossard scored the decisive goal against the Hammers, who are fighting for survival.
However, the match brought drama in the final minutes: Callum Wilson thought he had grabbed the equalizer in the 95th minute, but after a lengthy VAR review, the goal was disallowed due to a foul on goalkeeper David Raya by Pablo, at the moment of the corner kick.
“I will definitely remember this day. We knew it would be a difficult day, they are fighting for their lives, while we are trying to win the Premier League.”
“There’s a lot at stake. We started the game very well and had three big chances.”
“Then Ben White’s injury came, we had to make a change and adapt, we had to make tough decisions. We threw everything we had to win it.”
“We were rewarded for that courage. Then there are two actions, one with David Raya. He makes an incredible save, and then the controversy about the disallowed goal, which is obviously a big decision.”
“When I needed to be critical, I was. But I have to congratulate them (the referees). It takes a lot of courage to come out and give the referee the opportunity to watch the action.”
“When you see the picture, there’s no doubt, it’s a clear foul. They were very brave.”
“The action deserved this. In my opinion, it is very clear. These are the rules and we demand continuity.”
