Webb Defends Officials Over Dalot Decision in Manchester Derby

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Howard Webb defends the decision not to send off Diogo Dalot in Manchester United's win over Manchester City, citing the need for real-time assessment.

Webb backs officials in high-profile Manchester derby call

Premier League referees’ boss Howard Webb has rejected claims that officials made a mistake by not sending off Diogo Dalot during Manchester United’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City on Saturday. The incident, which occurred in the 11th minute, saw Dalot booked for a high challenge on Jeremy Doku, with his studs making contact with the City winger’s knee.

The on-field decision by referee Anthony Taylor was supported by video assistant referee (VAR) Craig Pawson, who judged the contact as “glancing and not with excessive force”. Webb, speaking on Match Officials Mic’d Up, argued that slow-motion replays exaggerated the severity of the challenge and maintained that a yellow card was an acceptable outcome. He emphasised the need to assess such incidents at full speed, noting that “you’ll not see many red cards in the Premier League for serious foul play that don’t involve” significant speed, force, or intensity.

While some, including former England striker Alan Shearer, criticised the decision and felt a red card was warranted, Webb insisted that the situation was subjective and ultimately should remain the referee’s call. He stated, “If red had been given, I would have expected the red card to stand as well,” underlining the importance of respecting the on-field judgement in such cases.

Key talking points

  • Howard Webb supports decision not to send off Diogo Dalot
  • VAR and on-field referee agreed on a yellow card
  • Incident involved a high challenge on Jeremy Doku
  • Slow-motion replays deemed to exaggerate severity
  • Debate over subjective nature of excessive force

Sources