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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has criticised the decision to award Everton a penalty in Saturday’s 1-1 draw, insisting “there is no way” it should have stood.
The Gunners took the lead through Leandro Trossard, but their grip on the game slipped after Myles Lewis-Skelly was adjudged to have fouled Jack Harrison inside the box.
Iliman Ndiaye converted from the spot to level for Everton, with VAR Stuart Atwell opting not to overturn referee Darren England’s decision despite minimal contact.
“The referee decides to give a penalty that changes the course of the game,” Arteta told reporters.
“After seeing it 15 times, there is no way that is a penalty. If it is, then [Jake] O’Brien has to be sent off and Everton should be down to 10. That’s clear.”
The draw leaves Arsenal 11 points behind league leaders Liverpool, whose upcoming clash with Fulham could further widen the gap.
With just seven games remaining, the Gunners’ title hopes appear to be fading.
Attention now shifts to Tuesday night, when Arsenal host Real Madrid in the Champions League quarterfinal first leg.
Everton, meanwhile, climb to 14th place and now sit 12 points above the relegation zone.
