Why Dean Henderson Was Not Sent Off For Crystal Palace Handball vs Man City

Why Dean Henderson Was Not Sent Off For Crystal Palace Handball vs Man City

Manchester City thought they were going to be handed a significant advantage in the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace despite falling behind to an Eberechi Eze goal in the first-half. Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson was seen as lucky to get away with what appeared to be a handball outside his penalty area.

The Eagles were in dreamland after Eze swept the ball into the back of the City net following a clinical attack, which involved brilliant build-up play between Jean-Philippe Mateta and Daniel Munoz. Despite the many early chances Pep Guardiola’s men created in the opening exchanges, it was first blood to Oliver Glasner’s side at Wembley Stadium.

With Palace supporters dreaming of their club lifting a first-ever major trophy, hearts were in mouths for a couple of minutes as VAR checked an alleged offence by Henderson. Spotting Erling Haaland making a run in behind his backline, the ex-Man Utd shot-stopper rushed off his line and intervened to deny the forward a chance.

Dean Henderson Faces No Punishment For Handball vs Man City

Direction of play was crucial for Palace goalkeeper

Replays showed that Henderson was outside his 18-yard box when he made contact with the ball. Despite VAR looking at the incident, the ‘keeper was not punished despite his hand coming between Haaland and what looked to be a clear chance at goal. The explanation given by the commentary team, which was fed through by VAR was:

“Direction of play is going into the wide area, away from goal.”

With the ball being wide of the post and heading away from the target, Henderson could breathe a huge sigh of relief. He would then be the hero before the opening 45 minutes was over as he saved Omar Marmoush’s penalty kick to keep the underdogs ahead moving into the second period.