Topics: Premier League, Pep Guardiola, Football
Farai Hallam will not referee in the Premier League this weekend following a controversial decision in Manchester City's game against Wolves that incensed Pep Guardiola, due to PGMOL protocol.
Man City beat Wolves 2-0 last Saturday as first-half goals from Omar Marmoush and Antoine Semenyo ensured all three points at the Etihad.
The league fixture was overseen by Hallam, who was making his Premier League debut.
But he hasn't been selected for this weekend's round of league games following his controversial decision in Man City's win over Wolves.
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The referee boldly went against VAR when asked to review an alleged handball by Wolves defender Yerson Mosquera.
Hallam, however, stuck with his on-field decision of no penalty rather than awarding a penalty following the VAR review.
Delivering his verdict to the crowd, Hallam said: "After review, the ball hits the arm of the Wolves player, which is in a natural position, so the on-field decision will remain."
Hallam's decision to not award a penalty to Man City angered Guardiola, who pulled no punches in his post-match press conference.
"The player’s arm is out from his body," he exclaimed.
"The ref made a huge debut... so now everyone will know him, but it’s OK.
"It’s the first time they go to a TV and disallowed what is a 'normal' position of the arms."
Guardiola later referenced PGMOL chief Howard Webb, sarcastically saying: "I’m waiting for a phone call to explain why it wasn’t a penalty."
Following Hallam's decision and Guardiola's comments, the referee won't be officiating a match this weekend due to league protocol as Howard Webb looks to phase in emerging referee talents.
A referee who is making his debut is typically not allocated a game after making their debut and Hallam will instead officiate the Stoke City vs Southampton match in the Championship at 12.30pm on Saturday.
The PGMOL, however, has been known to take match officials out of the spotlight following a controversial decision.
Previously, it has been a glaring error or miscommunication that has led to the removal of an official.
Man City, meanwhile, return to action on Wednesday when they face Galatasaray in the Champions League.
The Blues, who are four points behind league leaders Arsenal in the table, then resume their league campaign on Sunday against Tottenham.
Rob Jones will referee Spurs vs. Man City.
