West Bromwich Albion have written to both the Barclays Premier League and the Football Association after the controversial decision that cost the Baggies an impressive win away at Chelsea last Saturday afternoon.
The Baggies have written to the governing bodies asking for video evidence and general clarification as to why a penalty was awarded in the last minute of the game, with West Brom leading the game at that point.
Chelsea’s Brazilian midfielder Ramires was ajudged to have dived after colliding with West Brom defender Steven Reid, the penalty was awarded by referee Andre Marriner, as Frank Lampard stepped up and confidentley smashed past goalkeeper Boaz Myhill to get the Blues a point, and spare manager Jose Moutinho’s blushes.
In his letter, chairman Jeremy Peace sets out four occasions on which he says his team were unfairly penalised. Club cheif executive Dan Ashworth has also expressed his disbelief at the decision and he too has written an open letter to the governing bodies, asking for video evidence of the decision.
The club wants the option for referees to review footage to be debated at a Premier League shareholders’ meeting.Albion will also offer the other 19 Premier League sides to meet and discuss the way refereeing decisions are made, after some high profile decisions made in key matches this year.
Albion have felt harshly treated by officials after some key decisions which have gone against them during this season, such as the last minute penalty against Southampton, which was converted by Ricky Lambert, as Southampton beat the Baggies on the opening day.The baggies have also had key decisions against Arsenal and Stoke City go against them.
Without those decisions, they maintain, they would be seven points better off in the league table – and in fifth place rather than 10th.The Albion are also demanding a meeting with the head of the professional refereeing association Mike Riley, the meeting would presumably be attended by Pearce, and first team manager Steve Clarke.
By Ben Reardon
@BenReardon1