adminIn their 1-1 draw with Leeds United, Tottenham had a late penalty appeal turned down following a VAR review. The Premier League has since clarified why the decision went against Spurs during Monday’s match at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Deep into added time, James Maddison went down under a challenge from Lukas Nmecha. Referee Jarred Gillett initially dismissed the appeals, and after a VAR check, the original ruling stood. The Premier League explained on their Match Centre X account:
“The referee’s call of no penalty to Tottenham Hotspur was checked and confirmed by VAR – with it deemed that Nmecha played the ball.”
During the review, Sky Sports co-commentator Alan Smith noticed the Leeds player’s touch on the ball. “VAR will certainly get involved here!” he said. “He certainly catches Maddison. Does he get a touch on the ball? He might get the slightest—which could save him!”
After a cautious first half, Spurs took the lead early in the second period when Mathys Tel scored past Karl Darlow. However, Tel was also involved in Leeds’ equalizer. Attempting to clear the ball in his own area, he caught Ethan Ampadu.
Following a VAR review, a penalty was awarded to Leeds, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin converted past Antonin Kinsky. Referee Gillett announced: “After review, Tottenham No.11 commits a foul on the Leeds attacker. The final decision is a penalty kick.”
With 13 minutes of added time, both sides pushed for a winner. Spurs’ Kinsky made a brilliant reaction save to deny Sean Longstaff, and Tottenham then had their own penalty shout in the final minute of stoppage time.
Maddison’s appearance marked his first minutes since returning from a long-term knee injury, and he could be key in the season’s final two matches.
Spurs next travel to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in just over a week, before concluding their campaign at home against Everton on Sunday, 24 May (4pm kick-off).
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