Saturday’s 1-1 draw between Arsenal and Everton may have left Gunners fans fuming — and for good reason. The decision to award a second-half penalty against Myles Lewis-Skelly has sparked widespread debate, with both former referee Mike Dean and ex-Premier League defender Michael Dawson weighing in on the controversial moment.

The penalty, which came early in the second half after Jack Harrison went down in the box, was initially met with confusion and then outrage. VAR Stuart Attwell stood by the on-field call, but video replays later showed minimal contact, with some arguing that the foul — if any — began outside the area.

Mike Dean: “It’s Probably Not Wrong… But It’s Soft”

Speaking on Sky Sports, veteran referee Mike Dean admitted the call was debatable at best:

“There’s a bit of contact outside and there’s a little bit of contact inside. I think it’s a soft one. It’s probably not wrong, but it’s a soft one.”

His words mirror the sentiment of many fans who felt justice wasn’t fully served. Dean's take — while diplomatically delivered — leaves enough room for doubt about the referee's decision-making process, especially with VAR involved.

Michael Dawson: “Awfully Soft… Hardly a Touch”

Former Spurs and Hull City defender Michael Dawson was far more direct:

“I can see why it was given in real time. But watching it again, there’s hardly a touch.”

Dawson emphasized that the challenge lacked any real force and insisted the decision should have been overturned by VAR. His analysis echoed across social media where fans pointed out that Lewis-Skelly merely brushed Harrison — if even that.

Opinion: Arsenal Robbed or Just Unlucky?

This incident adds another layer of frustration to what has already been a rollercoaster of a season for Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal. The team’s title hopes have taken successive hits, and to drop points due to such a contentious call feels like adding salt to the wound.

Yes, referees are human. Yes, football is full of marginal calls. But when VAR is in play, shouldn’t these decisions be clearer, more consistent, and, most importantly, fair?

Arsenal did their part in the first half with Leandro Trossard opening the scoring, but it was Iliman Ndiaye's spot-kick — born of controversy — that ultimately decided the fate of the match.

⚖️ One thing is clear: when even seasoned professionals like Mike Dean raise their eyebrows, perhaps it’s time to revisit how VAR interprets these delicate, game-altering moments. What do you think — was it a penalty or pure drama?