Referees Association Rules Against Potential Penalty for Hapoel Jerusalem

The Israel Football Association Referees Committee has ruled that a penalty should not have been awarded to Hapoel Jerusalem in their recent match against Hapoel Petah Tikva. The controversy arose in the 79th minute of Saturday's game, which Hapoel Petah Tikva won 1-0. During the play, Hapoel Jerusalem player Israel Dafa fell in the penalty area, prompting calls for a penalty kick. The VAR (Video Assistant Referee) officials intervened, suggesting the on-field referee review the incident, believing a foul had occurred. However, after reviewing the play, the referee maintained his original decision not to award a penalty.

The Referees Committee stated that the VAR officials' call to review the incident was incorrect. They clarified that the minimal contact in the penalty area did not warrant a penalty kick. The committee commended the on-field referee for his correct decision, noting he had a clear view of the play and acted appropriately by not awarding the penalty and sticking to his initial judgment despite the VAR recommendation.