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David Moyes dismisses reason behind West Ham's late penalty controversy in Freiburg defeat

David Moyes dismisses reason behind West Ham's late penalty controversy in Freiburg defeat

David Moyes was left bemused after his West Ham side were denied a crucial penalty deep into stoppage time in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 meeting with Freiburg.

The Hammers head to the London Stadium for next week’s return trailing 1-0 after Michael Gregoritsch’s close-range finish settled a cagey first leg in the home side’s favour.

However, West Ham looked set to be given a late chance to level when Tomas Soucek’s attempt to keep the ball alive struck the raised arm of Freiburg winger Noah Weisshaupt just inside the box and VAR ordered a review.

The resulting check lasted more than four minutes before referee Alejandro Hernandez eventually decided to stick with his on-field decision, much to West Ham’s dismay.

"If we'd had it given against us, we'd probably think it was harsh, but ultimately I have to say what are you doing with your hands above your head?" Moyes said.

"They are trying to claim there might have been a slight push and that's why it wasn't given - but they should have restarted the game with a free-kick if they said it was a push.

"It certainly wasn't enough of a push to warrant a free-kick, so that shouldn't mean that it should even come into consideration. The boy has two arms above his head.

"In the Premier League, I am not sure that would be given, but in UEFA competitions in Europe they're normally given by the referees. I watch Spanish football and German football and nearly every handball is seen.

"If you think of the one we had against Kurt [Zouma at Everton] the other day, but we just have to take it and move on."