Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett has weighed in on the controversial penalty decision that went against Birmingham City in their Vertu Trophy semi-final victory over Bradford City.
Blues forward Jay Stansfield, who had already put his side 1-0 ahead with a fine finish, was barged to the ground early in the second half by Romoney Crichlow. While Birmingham fans expected a penalty, referee Scott Oldham waved play on—allowing Bradford to break away and equalise just seconds later.
The incident took a further turn as Stansfield remained motionless on the ground, requiring lengthy treatment before being stretchered off.
“I thought that this was a barge in the back of his opponent and expected the referee in a good position to point to the penalty mark,” Hackett told *Football Insider*.
‘Careless’ Challenge Dismissed
Hackett acknowledged that Crichlow’s challenge was unintentional but still felt it met the criteria for a foul.
“Sadly, in coming together, the Bradford City player landed on his opponent, which was an accident,” he explained. “The challenge, in my opinion, by the Bradford City player was careless.
“The law states for a direct free kick: ‘A careless challenge is when a player shows a lack of attention or consideration when making a challenge or acts without precaution.’ No disciplinary sanction is needed.”
Despite the referee’s decision, Birmingham held on to secure a 2-1 victory and book their place in the final. However, the controversy over the missed penalty and the injury to Stansfield left a sour note on the win.
Chris Davies: ‘I Don’t Even Need to Watch it Back’
Blues boss Chris Davies was adamant that his side had been wronged by the officiating but praised his players for getting the job done regardless.
“It’s one of those things where I don’t even need to watch it back to see that it’s a penalty. I know it was a penalty,” Davies stated. “Then for them to break away and score adds insult to injury.”
Stansfield’s condition remains unclear, with Davies unable to provide a full update post-match.
Writer’s View
Birmingham City will feel aggrieved by Oldham’s decision, especially given the game’s context. A penalty at that stage could have put the tie beyond Bradford’s reach, instead, it swung the momentum in their favour. Hackett’s assessment only adds weight to the feeling that Blues were hard done by. With Stansfield’s injury adding to the frustration, the hope now will be for a swift recovery ahead of the final.
