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O’Neil blasts Hammers opener
Gary O’Neil slammed the “terrible decision” to allow Kurt Zouma’s controversial opener in Bournemouth’s 2-0 defeat at West Ham.
Zouma’s first-half goal was allowed to stand by VAR despite the ball clearly striking defender Thilo Kehrer’s hand moments before.
The word from Stockley Park was that because the handball was not deliberate and did not lead directly to the goal, it was allowed to stand.
O’Neil was booked for his protests just before the break and made his feelings clear to referee David Coote at full-time.
The Cherries caretaker said: “I’m doing that every game at the minute.
“We’re obviously disappointed with the first goal, it was a terrible decision. It cannot stand, it’s impossible that that’s a goal.
“His arm moved towards the ball. I can’t understand how that can be given. I just can’t even believe we have to discuss it, it’s handball 100 times out of 100.”
The Cherries were dealt another slice of bad fortune in stoppage time when Vladimir Coufal’s cross struck the hand of substitute Jordan Zemura in the box, allowing Said Benrahma to seal the win from the penalty spot.
O’Neill added: “It’s hard on the lads. It’s the way it’s going at the moment, really unlucky.
“They get one breakaway and cross the ball with hardly anyone in the box. Anyone who’s ever slid for a ball will not have their hands by their side, it’s impossible.
“The hard thing to take is the huge advantage West Ham gained for their two handballs, and we were getting no advantage from the ball hitting Jordan’s hand.”
Mac Allister hails Bright future
Alexis Mac Allister reckons Brighton can reach even greater heights after signing a new long-term deal with the club.
The Argentine, 23, has put pen to paper on a new contract that will keep him at the Amex until the summer of 2025, with the option to extend that agreement by a further 12 months.
Mac Allister has been one of the Seagulls’ standout stars this season as they continue to fly high in ninth in the Premier League table.
And despite Graham Potter leaving for Chelsea last month, the midfielder believes the future remains bright on the South Coast under new boss Roberto De Zerbi.
After signing his new deal, Mac Allister said: “We’ve been discussing a new contract for a few weeks, and I’m very happy it’s all agreed and signed.
“I am really happy here at Brighton. I’m grateful for the opportunity the club gave me to come to England and play in the Premier League, and it’s been an incredible journey.
“We have made great progress with Graham Potter, and I know there is more to make. I am now enjoying working with another top coach in Roberto De Zerbi and want to help the club to keep progressing.”
De Zerbi added: “I’m very happy for Alexis and for the club. He is an important player for us, and it is very good he has signed this new long-term contract.
“I am looking forward to working more with him, helping him to improve, and to seeing him play at the World Cup next month.”
