GARY Rowett believes Oxford United were denied a ‘blatant penalty’ in their defeat at West Bromwich Albion.
United were 1-0 down in the final 10 minutes when a headed clearance fell to Cameron Brannagan outside the penalty area.
The U’s midfielder slammed a first-time volley into a crowded penalty box, with a number of United players appealing for a handball by Baggies substitute Will Lankshear.
Referee Sam Allison was unmoved though and booked Brannagan for his protestation.
READ ALSO: Left back set for immediate return to sidelines with quad injury
U’s head coach Rowett said: “I’ve watched it again and it’s a blatant penalty. Cammy shoots and the lad’s arm ends up outstretched with a little bit of a kink in it, and it just catches him almost on the bicep and the ball diverts.
ADVERTISEMENT
“You see seven players jump straight up instantly for a penalty. I think he [Allison] might’ve said to the players out on the pitch it wasn’t an unnatural position, but if your arm is by your side outstretched, then it’s a penalty. It’s as simple as that.
“I’m disappointed we didn’t get that. I think that’s another game where there is no decision in the penalty box for Oxford. It is what it is.”
The Baggies also saw an appeal for a penalty turned down for an alleged handball by Alex Matos in the first half.
