Ref Watch: Dean spot-kicks right

Ref Watch is back to debate another selection of controversial decisions from some of the weekend’s Premier League matches.

Former top-flight official Dermot Gallagher has been in the Sky Sports News HQ studio to analyse a number of contentious calls.

From a whole host of penalties given to those not awarded, red cards and a spot of ‘simulation’, we have it all covered in this week’s edition.

MATCH: Man Utd v Southampton, Premier League, Friday

INCIDENT: Jordy Clasie trips Luke Shaw in the area

SCENARIO: Southampton midfielder Clasie needlessly stops Shaw’s run into the box by upending the left-back, with the referee pointing to the spot

DERMOT’S VERDICT: Correct decision

DERMOT SAYS: It’s a tricky one to spot but it’s a penalty. The referee has got a great position. He’s tripped him but also pulled and Clasie’s reaction tells you everything. His reaction says: ‘What have I done?’

MATCH: Stoke City v Man City, Premier League, Saturday

INCIDENT: Ryan Shawcross grabs Nicolas Otamendi’s jersey in the penalty area, with referee Mike Dean awarding a spot kick

SCENARIO: Stoke centre-back Shawcross impedes City defender Otamendi in the box by pulling the Argentine’s shirt at a corner midway through the first half at the bet365 stadium

DERMOT’S VERDICT: Correct decision

DERMOT SAYS: I think he’s got both right. What I would also say is that over the weekend I haven’t heard anybody criticise the referee for these two decisions, which is quite pleasing. Last season I stood here week after week defending referees for that not happening. Now you’ve got your wish and you’re still not happy!

MATCH: Stoke City v Man City, Premier League, Saturday

INCIDENT: Raheem Sterling blocks off Ryan Shawcross in the area, with referee Dean once again pointing to the spot

SCENARIO: Sterling, who is not looking at the ball as it comes into the box from a right-wing corner, stops Shawcross’ run

DERMOT’S VERDICT: Correct decision

DERMOT SAYS: He was almost like an American football blocker. He doesn’t once look at the ball and only looks at Shawcross. It’s plainly obvious he’s there to block him off. Mike Dean has been strong and courageous and he’s got it right. As I said earlier, everyone’s applauding him for that and long may it continue. What will …

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