Is this a goal? Newcastle are awarded controversial equaliser against League One Birmingham with no goal-line technology in FA Cup fourth round
Newcastle were awarded a controversial equaliser against Birmingham City in their FA Cup clash, with Joe Willock’s effort adjudged by the officials to have crossed the line.
Birmingham had taken a shock lead in at St Andrews with Ethan Laird putting the hosts ahead in the opening minute following a corner.
Eddie Howe’s side levelled in controversial fashion when Willock turned in William Osula’s cut back in the 21st minute.
The Newcastle midfielder was initially dejected after being denied by goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell before blazing the rebound over the bar.
But dejection turned to delight when the Magpies were awarded a goal, after the linesman deemed Willock’s initial effort to have crossed the line.
Goal line technology is used in the FA Cup but not in League One grounds.
Joe Willock equalised for Newcastle at Birmingham despite doubts if the ball crossed the line
Willock was initially dejected after his first effort was saved before blasting the rebound over
Dejection turned to delight for the midfielder seconds later as he was awarded the goal
Former Birmingham defender Matthew Upson said on the BBC: It’s a tough one to call. It’s actually impossible to tell whether that’s fully over the line.
‘It’s the first real time Callum Wilson has got into the game and made something happen.’
Former Everton midfielder Leon Osman added: ‘The assistant referee flagged really early as if he has given the goal. You put the flag across the chest to say a goal but he was still waving it like he had given an offside or throw.
‘It’s just confused everybody. Newcastle thought they missed the chance and Birmingham thought they got away with one. That looks awfully close and it would have been very difficult to give.’
Newcastle took the lead five minutes later through Callum Wilson before Tomoki Iwata’s stunning strike levelled the game just before the break.
Willock then struck with eight minutes remaining to secure the victory for Newcastle.
