Forest were left incensed following their 2-0 Premier League loss to the Toffees, citing three incidents they believed warranted penalty calls. Expressing their frustration on social media, the club criticized the “highly questionable decisions” and alleged bias, asserting they had alerted the PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited) about potential partiality. Despite Forest’s request for the release of VAR audio, The Times reports that this demand has been rejected.
While VAR audio was previously disclosed following Liverpool’s disallowed goal in September due to a factual error, the current situation involving Forest’s penalty appeals lacks such justification. However, there remains a chance for the audio to be made public through the Match Officials Mic’d Up program, featuring Howard Webb analyzing contentious decisions.
Manager Nuno Espirito Santo supported the club’s statement, emphasizing his agreement based on the evidence observed post-match. He lamented the decisions that went against his team, particularly highlighting incidents involving Gio Reyna, a potential handball, and an altercation with Ashley Young. Nuno acknowledged a recurring pattern of unfavorable decisions but stressed it wasn’t an excuse for their performance.
The Premier League is poised to probe Forest’s statement, possibly resulting in disciplinary action. Additionally, the club is contemplating legal action against Sky Sports and pundit Gary Neville, who likened their response to a “mafia gang.”
Nottingham Forest performance and stats
Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest is currently 17th in the Premier League with 26 points.
In the last 34 games, it has won 7 times, drawn 9 times, and lost 18 times. In its last match, Nottingham Forest lost 2-0 against Everton.
It has a negative goal difference after scoring 42 goals and conceding 60.
Nottingham Forest will play the next match in Premier League against Manchester City on Sunday 28th of April in Nottingham.
