Hartlepool United manager Kevin Phillips says his side were unfortunate after Luke Waterfall penalty appeals waved away in Eastleigh draw

Not only did Hartlepool United manager Kevin Phillips feel the referee was wrong to award Eastleigh a penalty in Saturday's 1-1 draw with the Spitfires, he felt his side could have been given a spot-kick just a few minutes beforehand.
By Robbie Stelling
Published 24th Mar 2024, 14:30 BST
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The referee waved away appeals even though an Eastleigh defender appeared to put two hands into the back of Luke Waterfall, who was up for a free-kick.

However, Aaron Jackson was nonplussed but just a few minutes later pointed to the spot for the home side after Nicky Featherstone was adjudged to have handled the ball in the area.

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And while Phillips was unable to hide his frustration at the decision given against his side, he was also left disappointed that his team didn't get a chance of their own from 12 yards.

Phillips felt Pools could have had a penalty following a push in the back of Luke WaterfallPhillips felt Pools could have had a penalty following a push in the back of Luke Waterfall
Phillips felt Pools could have had a penalty following a push in the back of Luke Waterfall

"He did (have two hands on him)," he said.

"From where we are it looked like he just pushed him over.

"Was he (the referee) ever going to give us one? I don't think so, even if it was stonewall.

"I've seen them given and I've seen them not given but being here in front of a home crowd it was never going to happen.

"That was potentially a penalty for us."

Related topics:Kevin PhillipsEastleigh

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