Moyes criticizes refereeing in Everton’s defeat to Leeds: Controversial penalty

David Moyes Criticizes Refereeing Decision in Everton’s Defeat to Leeds

Everton manager David Moyes expressed his disagreement with the referee’s decision that resulted in a penalty for Leeds United, considering it “poor” overall. In the opening Premier League match, Everton were defeated 1-0 at Elland Road. The penalty, which Moyes questioned, came after Everton captain James Tarkowski appeared to handle the ball following a deflected shot from Leeds debutant Anton Stach. Lukas Nmecha converted the penalty, giving Leeds the victory. Moyes stated that he did not believe the play warranted the penalty.

Obviously I’m going to say it wasn’t a penalty, and I don’t think it was a penalty.

David Moyes

Moyes, visibly annoyed, added that he considered the referees had had a “poor” weekend in terms of decisions on the opening day. Regarding his team’s performance, Moyes admitted that there was an improvement in the second half, but he was not impressed with the overall game. Leeds manager Daniel Farke praised Nmecha for his composure in converting the penalty. Nmecha, who had struggled with injuries in recent seasons, was Leeds’ first signing in the summer. Farke highlighted his excellent performance and the value of the goal scored. Everton will play their first Premier League match at the new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium against Brighton on August 24. Leeds, for their part, will face Arsenal the day before.