Ruben Dias Slams Refereeing Decision After Controversial Harvey Barnes Winner Against Manchester City
Manchester City defender Ruben Dias has strongly criticised the decision to allow Harvey Barnes’ winning goal to stand in Newcastle United’s 2-1 victory over the Blues on Saturday evening.
City suffered their fourth Premier League defeat of the season at St. James’ Park, delivering another major blow to their title hopes. Barnes scored twice, either side of a Dias equaliser, sealing an important win for Eddie Howe’s side after an inconsistent start to their campaign.
With Arsenal set to face Tottenham on Sunday, the Gunners could extend their lead at the top to six points, leaving Pep Guardiola’s men under increasing pressure.
Manchester City were wasteful in the opening half, missing several good chances despite Newcastle showing more attacking intent. All three goals came within a frantic six-minute spell early in the second half, with Barnes’ second strike ultimately proving decisive.
Controversial Winner
The biggest talking point of the match came from Barnes’ winning goal. Speaking after the game, Ruben Dias questioned how the goal was allowed to stand after clear contact on goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma during the corner.
“The second goal… we need to make it make sense,” Dias told Sky Sports. “What is the sense in their player pushing our keeper outside the goal? What are we allowing, and for how long? Sometimes you allow it, sometimes you don’t. So where’s the rule?”
Dias admitted he only realised the full extent of the incident after watching the replay.
“Gigio is in his place, he’s being pushed out—there’s no consequence, it’s allowed. We’re so picky with certain contacts, but one like this with the keeper you allow? Back in the day this was always a foul. Now, apparently, it’s allowed. If this is the rule, fine—let us do the same.”
City Still Second Best
Despite his frustration with the ruling, Dias acknowledged that Newcastle earned their victory:
“Newcastle were better today. They deserved the win. They finished their chances. I’m not making excuses just saying there needs to be a rule.”
While the controversy surrounding Barnes’ winner left City feeling aggrieved, their lack of cutting edge in the first half ultimately cost them. A draw could have been a fair outcome, but Newcastle took their moments and City fell short once again away from home.
