Penalty call for Vardy's goal vs. Arsenal divides opinion
As an energetic, closely-contested half drew to a close at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, Arsenal's Nacho Monreal extended a leg which appeared to tumble Jamie Vardy in the area.
The penalty was duly converted by the Premier League's top scorer, giving Leicester City a precious 1-0 lead at the interval.
Was it a rash challenge by Monreal and a definite penalty? Or did Vardy trail a leg to ensure he went to ground? Whether it was a fair call by referee Martin Atkinson has certainly divided opinion.
Monreal extends his leg, unwisely plants it, Vardy kicks the obstacle on the way through, is awarded pen. Discuss. I know you will.
— Paul Hayward (@_PaulHayward) February 14, 2016
Watched it 4 times.
— Stan Collymore (@StanCollymore) February 14, 2016
Dive from Vardy. Doesn’t leave the left leg in then doesn’t come into contact with Monreal.
Vardy undeniably "manufactures" the moment somewhat but it's lazy defending and a justifiable penalty.
— Miguel Delaney (@MiguelDelaney) February 14, 2016
Poor challenging by #afc. Koscielny on Kante. Monreal on Vardy. Vardy drills in pen. 1-0 #lcfc. But foul by Morgan on Ozil in build-up.
— Henry Winter (@henrywinter) February 14, 2016
That was a dive by Vardy. Or "clever", if you prefer. I prefer dive. Other views are available ...
— Oliver Kay (@OliverKayTimes) February 14, 2016
Penalty. Agree No doubt
— Lee Dixon (@LeeDixon2) February 14, 2016
Big debate about the #LCFC pen. Vardy seeks contact, but once Monreal plants foot and misses ball, he's in trouble. #AFC v #LCFC. Thoughts?
— Arlo White (@arlowhite) February 14, 2016