Mike Dean slams officials for not awarding ‘clear’ penalty in Crystal Palace vs Chelsea draw

Chelsea’s struggles continued with a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace on Saturday, with former Premier League referee Mike Dean adding to the frustration by stating Chelsea should have been awarded a penalty in the second half—a decision that might have altered the outcome.

Under Enzo Maresca, Chelsea’s poor run has now extended to four league matches without a win. Recent results include a draw with Everton and losses to Fulham and Ipswich Town. This latest draw leaves them nine points behind league leaders Liverpool, who still have two games in hand.

Chelsea began the match strongly, taking the lead early through Cole Palmer. Despite dominating and pushing for a second goal, they failed to capitalize on their chances. Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta scored a late equalizer, leaving Chelsea frustrated and without the win.

The game’s pivotal moment came in the 63rd minute. Pedro Neto chased a loose ball inside Palace’s penalty area, with Tyrick Mitchell in pursuit. Neto went to ground after contact from Mitchell, but referee Tim Robinson decided against awarding a penalty, allowing play to continue.

Mike Dean, now a referee analyst for Sky Sports, reviewed the footage and disagreed with the decision. “I think it’s a penalty. Neto got to the ball first and moved it away, and Mitchell caught him from behind,” Dean explained. Despite Dean’s assessment, VAR official Paul Tierney did not intervene, and the Premier League’s Match Centre has not provided any clarification, deepening Chelsea’s frustration.

Dean defended his conclusion, stating, “I’ve slowed it down, and it’s clear Mitchell didn’t touch the ball. It should have been a penalty, and VAR should have stepped in. This decision could have changed the game for Chelsea.”

The result leaves Chelsea in a difficult position, with their title hopes fading and pressure mounting for quick improvements. Controversial moments like this penalty decision only add to the growing dissatisfaction among players and fans alike.