“SHAME ON THEM!” Mike Dean EXPLODES at Stuart Attwell and VAR After “Stonewall” Penalty Robbery in West Ham vs Everton

“SHAME ON THEM!” Mike Dean EXPLODES at Stuart Attwell and VAR After “Stonewall” Penalty Robbery in West Ham vs Everton

In a fiery outburst that has sent shockwaves through the Premier League, former top referee Mike Dean has slammed referee Stuart Attwell and the VAR team following a highly contentious no-penalty decision during West Ham United’s clash with Everton.The incident occurred late in the match at the London Stadium, with Everton pushing for an equaliser.

The ball struck the arm of West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes inside the penalty area as he grappled with Everton forward Thierno Barry. Replays appeared to show a clear handball, prompting strong appeals from Everton players and manager David Moyes.

However, on-field referee Stuart Attwell waved away the claims, and VAR officials — led by Michael Salisbury and assistant Daniel Robathan — reviewed the incident before confirming the decision, ruling it as “accidental contact” while the players were grappling.

Speaking live on Sky Sports, an visibly frustrated Mike Dean did not hold back. “It’s a stonewall penalty,” he declared. “He’s backed into him, put his arm round and knocked the ball with his hand.

It just has to be a penalty… shame on them!”Dean’s strong criticism has reignited the ongoing debate about VAR’s consistency in handball decisions. Many pundits and fans argue that the laws around “accidental” handball remain too subjective, often leading to frustration for teams fighting at the wrong end of the table.

Everton, already under pressure in a tough season, were left incensed by the call. David Moyes expressed his surprise post-match, questioning the grappling explanation provided by VAR. The Toffees eventually found an equaliser through Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, but the controversy overshadowed what could have been a crucial point.

This latest VAR controversy adds to a growing list of contentious decisions affecting Everton this season. Ex-refs chief and other analysts have echoed Dean’s sentiments, suggesting the club has been “let down again” by officials.As the Premier League heads into its final stretch, questions continue to mount over the effectiveness of VAR and the need for clearer guidelines on handball.

Mike Dean’s no-nonsense verdict — “Shame on them!” — has perfectly captured the mood of many supporters tired of inconsistent officiating