Oxford United boss Gary Rowett was left frustrated after his side were denied what he described as a “blatant penalty” in their 2-0 defeat at West Bromwich Albion.
Trailing 1-0 in the final 10 minutes, Oxford’s Cameron Brannagan struck a volley into a crowded penalty area, with several players immediately appealing for a handball against Baggies substitute Will Lankshear. Referee Sam Allison waved away the protests, booking Brannagan for his reaction.
Rowett, who reviewed the incident post-match, was adamant the decision should have gone Oxford’s way.
“I’ve watched it again and it’s a blatant penalty. Cammy shoots and the lad’s arm ends up outstretched with a little bit of a kink in it, and it just catches him almost on the bicep and the ball diverts.
“You see seven players jump straight up instantly for a penalty. I think he [Allison] might’ve said to the players out on the pitch it wasn’t an unnatural position, but if your arm is by your side outstretched, then it’s a penalty. It’s as simple as that.
“I’m disappointed we didn’t get that. I think that’s another game where there is no decision in the penalty box for Oxford. It is what it is.”
West Brom Back in Play-Off Race
West Bromwich Albion moved back into the Championship play-off places with a deserved victory at The Hawthorns. Alex Mowatt’s early goal, a composed finish after a precise through ball from Isaac Price, gave the Baggies control in a dominant display.
Oxford battled to stay in the contest but rarely threatened an equaliser, and as they pushed forward late on, they were caught out by a counter-attack. John Swift secured the victory in stoppage time, capitalising on Oxford’s desperation to find a goal.
For Tony Mowbray’s side, the win was their third in seven matches since his appointment in January, lifting them back to fifth in the table and strengthening their promotion hopes.
In contrast, Oxford’s struggles continued. Rowett’s initial impact after taking charge in December has faded, and with just one goal in their past six games, their attacking issues are becoming increasingly concerning. The U’s must find solutions quickly if they are to avoid sliding further down the table.
Writer’s View
Oxford United’s lack of goals is their most pressing issue, and while Rowett has every right to feel aggrieved over the penalty decision, his side must improve in the final third. West Brom, on the other hand, are steadily building momentum under Mowbray and look well-positioned for a strong play-off push.
