Yahoo News Unai Emery sums up Aston Villa's penalty gripe after Brighton loss
Unai Emery believes Aston Villa should have been awarded a penalty in the first half of their 1-0 defeat to Brighton after claiming the foul against Ezri Konsa which led to the Seagulls' winner was "soft."
Joao Pedro scored in the 88th minute as he tapped in from close range after seeing his penalty saved by Robin Olsen. The spot kick was awarded when Simon Adingra got goal-side of Konsa before falling over under pressure from the centre-back.
Brighton were full value for their second victory in 10 games against a Villa side who looked leggy as the game went on, but considering the strain on Emery's players, it makes it even more frustrating when inconsistent refereeing decisions go some way to deciding the outcome of a game.
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“I watched it ... soft," Emery said after full-time. "Always I am very respectful with the referee. Maybe if VAR is reviewing the action then it is difficult. But always I respect it.
"Even we had a possible penalty in the first half against Morgan Rogers. I watched both and they are similar, even maybe Morgan’s was more clear. But I respect always the referees. Always they are responsible and I accept their decisions.
"They’re soft, both of them [incidents]. The referee, maybe it is easier because Adringra had an advantage on Konsa. They are both soft.
"I am always telling the players, it is easier for us and the players to analyse it on the video. We have to accept it. They can make mistakes."
