Bournemouth keeper Mark Travers breaks silence on controversial Havertz controversial penalty
Mark Travers expressed the frustration felt by neutral observers regarding the penalty call, which appeared to show bias towards the bigger club.
Despite Arsenal’s clear dominance, the focal point was Kai Havertz’s actions, seemingly maneuvering to make contact and earn a penalty against Bournemouth’s goalkeeper, Travers.
Referee David Coote’s call stood after review by VAR Peter Bankes, leading to Bukayo Saka converting the resulting penalty to ease Arsenal’s nerves.
However, this decision seemed to reward cunning play. Arsenal’s luck continued when Antoine Semenyo’s goal was disallowed due to a contentious foul on David Raya.
Travers acknowledged the significance of the match for Arsenal’s title ambitions and anticipated a flurry of opinions on social media regarding the officiating decisions.
Travers said: “It was a massive game for Arsenal, they are trying to win the league and football’s a game of opinions – I’m sure there will be loads of them flying around on social media about a couple of decisions here.
“From a goalkeeper’s perspective, I was just trying to come out and make a save – I wasn’t thinking about Havertz dangling out a leg, I was just trying to make myself big.
“Obviously he touches it past me and dangles his trailing foot there. The ref’s decision is frustrating but there’s nothing I can do about it now.
“I don’t know what else I’m supposed to do – just stand there so he can hit it first time so it goes in? I know once the ref’s made the decision it’s difficult to reverse it, but it just felt like he’s left a trailing leg in to catch my foot.
“My leg doesn’t come off the ground – I’ve just tried to stay low, make myself big and it looks a bit unnatural to leave your foot that low when you are trying to run forwards.
“My instinct was only to make a save, not to take Havertz down. It’s tough, but I don’t want to say too much and get myself in trouble.”
Kai Havertz is thoroughly enjoying Arsenal’s push for the title to the extent that he doesn’t want to rest. Despite initial skepticism from fans over his £65 million transfer from Chelsea last summer, the German striker’s versatility has proven to be a significant asset, with 13 goals in 41 starts.
And he doesn’t want to miss a single moment of the final push, saying: “I really enjoy every second – sometimes I don’t feel like I don’t even want to have a day off because you’re just so excited for the weekend.
“We have a lot to play for, we have to win our last two games and then see where we’re going to go. Right now, the mood is good but we’re going to prepare for a big game against Manchester United and hopefully win that as well.”
Bournemouth keeper Mark Travers breaks silence on controversial Havertz controversial penalty
