Crystal Palace handed new FA Cup final VAR verdict after Dean Henderson controversy

A new verdict has been delivered on the decision not to show Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson a red card in

Palace are aiming to lift their first major trophy as they . And despite conceding most of the ball for the opening 15 minutes, they grabbed the lead through Eberechi Eze with their first attack of the game, much to the delight of the Palace aim.

As City tried to hit back straight away, Palace were almost caught out by a long ball to Erling Haaland. However, Henderson was able to steer the ball away from the City striker.

READ MORE:

READ MORE:

Replays showed the goalkeeper was outside of his box when he pushed the ball away with his hand. If that had been spotted on the field by the referee, then it would have resulted in a free kick to City and a yellow card for Henderson.

However, VAR are not able to award free kicks and yellow cards. A check for a red card for denial of a goalscoring opportunity took place, but it was deemed that there was enough cover to save the Palace goalkeeper.

Speaking on Match of the Day commentary on BBC One, former Premier League striker Alan Shearer said: "The keeper was caught in two minds then. Dean Henderson nearly got done.

"There's no doubt that Dean Henderson touches that with his hand. It is clear to me that Erling Haaland is going away from goal."

ITV co-commentator Ally McCoist wasn't so sure. He said: "Hold on. Hold on a minute now. Where he touches that ball is a goalscoring opportunity.

"Where he puts it makes it a non-goalscoring opportunity but where the offence is committed is a goalscoring opportunity, surely."

Henderson was later the hero in the 35 minute, when he saved both Omar Marmoush's penalty and Haaland's subsequent rebound.