KEITH HACKETT DELIVERS VERDICT ON CONTROVERSIAL PATRICK DORGU GOAL AS MAN UNITED AND ASTON VILLA CLASH IN EIGHT-GOAL THRILLER

Former PGMOL chief and renowned FIFA referee Keith Hackett has given his verdict on the controversial goal scored by Patrick Dorgu during Manchester United’s dramatic 4-4 draw against Aston Villa, insisting that the equaliser was correctly allowed to stand.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hackett backed the officials’ decision to award the goal despite strong protests from Aston Villa players, who believed their goalkeeper had been unfairly obstructed during the incident.

The encounter between Manchester United and Aston Villa produced an entertaining eight-goal spectacle, with both sides involved in several heated moments and controversial refereeing decisions.

Two penalties were awarded during the contest, while Villa’s defensive players were particularly furious after conceding a late goal that eventually secured United a share of the points.

There were immediate appeals for VAR intervention, with goalkeeper Zion Suzuki among those attempting to convince the officials that an infringement had occurred before Dorgu found the net.

However, after reviewing the incident, the goal was allowed to stand, and Hackett believes the decision was absolutely correct.

Keith Hackett explains why Patrick Dorgu’s goal should stand

Goalkeepers generally receive considerable protection from referees, particularly when attempting to collect crosses or defend their penalty areas.

However, Hackett believes that Aston Villa’s goalkeeper was not fouled in the incident involving United goalkeeper Senne Lammens.

During the late corner, Suzuki attempted to come out and claim the delivery, but Lammens positioned himself directly in front of the Japanese goalkeeper.

Although the Belgian’s presence appeared to disrupt Suzuki’s attempt to reach the ball, Hackett argued that the contact occurred after the Villa goalkeeper had already failed to make a successful attempt to claim it.

Explaining his assessment, Hackett said he had watched the incident several times and concluded that Lammens’ actions took place after Suzuki had missed his opportunity to reach the ball.

He acknowledged that goalkeepers deserve protection, but stressed that they must also take responsibility for winning the ball cleanly when coming off their line.

According to the former refereeing chief, the incident was more a case of poor goalkeeping than an offence that deserved a free-kick.

Hackett made it clear that he had no problem with the goal being awarded, maintaining that Lammens’ involvement happened after the crucial moment rather than during Suzuki’s attempt to collect the ball.

Hackett praises Chris Kavanagh’s refereeing performance

Beyond the controversial equaliser, Hackett also shared his thoughts on the overall performance of referee Chris Kavanagh during the entertaining 4-4 encounter.

Despite the numerous talking points, he was impressed with how the official handled a difficult match involving several major incidents and strong reactions from both teams.

Hackett described Kavanagh’s display as one of his better performances, suggesting that the referee managed the contest reasonably well despite the pressure surrounding some of his decisions.

He also highlighted the importance of having experienced, top-level officials in charge of high-profile Premier League encounters.

Hackett pointed out that both Michael Oliver and Chris Kavanagh have earned UEFA Elite referee status, demonstrating that they have met the standards required by European football’s governing body.

In his view, a match of such importance and intensity required an official with the experience and quality to handle difficult situations.

Aston Villa and Manchester United fans divided over refereeing decisions

Unsurprisingly, the controversial incidents are likely to leave supporters from both sides debating the referee’s performance.

Aston Villa fans may strongly disagree with Hackett’s assessment, particularly given their belief that Suzuki was unfairly prevented from claiming the ball before Dorgu’s equaliser.

Meanwhile, Manchester United supporters may also have their own complaints about certain decisions made throughout the encounter.

Nevertheless, Hackett remains convinced that Kavanagh made the correct call in allowing Dorgu’s goal to stand.

With both teams having reasons to question aspects of the officiating, the former PGMOL chief believes the referee deserves credit for his overall handling of a highly demanding contest.