Keith Hackett reacts to Portsmouth penalty controversy v Luton – Exclusive
Sam Allison was at the heart of late controversy as Portsmouth fell to a 1-0 defeat against Luton in the Championship on Saturday.
Kal Naismith appeared to handle the ball in added time while spinning round in a challenge, but the appeals were waved away by officials.
That meant that Jordan Clark’s goal in the first half at Kennilworth Road was enough to seal all three points despite plenty of late chances for Pompey.
John Mousinho will not be happy with Portsmouth controversy
Travelling Portsmouth fans could not believe their eyes when their side weren’t handed a penalty, and Keith Hackett admits they can be disappointed by the decision.
The ex-PGMOL chief insists there was deliberate movement from Naismith to the ball, but with no VAR in play, it is “very difficult” to make that decision in the moment.
“Portsmouth can be disappointed that they were not awarded a penalty kick for handball,” Hackett exclusively told Pompey News.
“Whilst the defender was spinning, you see the deliberate arm movement speed up towards the ball and make contact.
“With no VAR review, the match officials have one chance of viewing the incident, and it is difficult to judge these incidents if you do not have clear unobstructed vision of it.
“See, Recognise, Think, Act – there was no VAR, so very difficult.”
Portsmouth regret missed chance at Luton
Even without this missed penalty chance, Pompey had more than enough to take home at least a point, maybe even all three.
Connor Ogilvie will take the headlines in that respect, heading over from six yards out when it looked easier to score with only minutes remaining.
If that went in, followed by the penalty that should have been given, it could have been a very different outcome against a Luton side who were in dismal form before this.
Just one example of the Sam Allison masterclass in refereeing this afternoon. (I’m aware Luton had a stonewall at the other end too)
— Fournilwrittenalloverit (@officialfournil) March 1, 2025
The second tier of professional English football deserves so much better from officials. Not an excuse however for result or performance #Pompey pic.twitter.com/ZsFb96pQp7
It shows how far Portsmouth have come in recent weeks in the Championship, but it will count for nothing after another disappointing away trip.
John Mousinho will want to turn that around, but with Leeds up next, Fratton Park is needed desperately, as injuries start to take over.