Hackett: Southampton Unlucky Not to Get Penalty in Sheffield United Win
Southampton were unfortunate not to be awarded a penalty during their 1-0 victory over Sheffield United on Wednesday night, according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hackett suggested that Tom Fellows’ attempt to stay on his feet after being challenged inside the box influenced referee Thomas Kirk’s decision not to point to the spot.
Leo Scienza’s early goal proved decisive as Sheffield United slipped to a third consecutive defeat in all competitions, leaving them just four points above the Championship relegation zone.
The controversial moment came in the first half when Sheffield United left-back Harrison Burrows appeared to trip Fellows in the penalty area. Footage later shown on Sky Sports News led pundit Darren Ambrose to argue that Fellows’ reluctance to go down immediately may have swayed the referee.
Hackett agreed, describing the incident as a careless challenge that went unpunished.
“It was a careless challenge,” Hackett said. “Had Fellows gone to ground straight away, there would have been a strong chance of a penalty being awarded.
Sheffield United were a little lucky, and it highlights why players are often encouraged to go down when there is contact in the box.”
Sheffield United’s defensive issues continue, with just one clean sheet in their last nine matches across all competitions.
The loss at Southampton represented a missed opportunity for Chris Wilder’s side, particularly with difficult fixtures against Ipswich, Millwall and Middlesbrough looming.
With pressure mounting and reinforcements needed before the transfer window closes, the Blades risk being dragged deeper into relegation trouble if results do not improve.
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