Peter Bankes reveals the exact reason he waited until Kolo Muani scored before ruling the goal out

Peter Bankes has insisted he remains “comfortable” with his decision to disallow Tottenham Hotspur’s second-half equaliser in Sunday’s North London derby.

The incident occurred with Arsenal leading 2-1 when Randal Kolo Muani appeared to bring Spurs level after controlling a looping ball and finishing past David Raya.

However, Bankes had already spotted what he deemed a foul in the build-up, awarding Arsenal a free kick for a push on Gabriel Magalhães.

The goal would have made it 2-2, but Arsenal quickly extended their lead and went on to secure a 4-1 victory.

The decision drew debate, with some pundits suggesting similar challenges have not been penalised elsewhere this season.

Speaking on Match Officials Mic’d Up, Bankes explained his reasoning in detail.

“I see two hands from the Tottenham player into the back of the Arsenal player and that is going to be my main focus,” he said. “Once you see two hands in live play, it looks like a push, a clear push.”

Bankes revealed he deliberately delayed his whistle to allow the attacking phase to conclude before making his final call.

“I delayed the whistle so that the play could continue, then obviously gave my final decision once the ball had gone into the goal and that allows the VAR then to potentially check if I’ve misread something,” he added.

The video assistant referee reviewed the incident and upheld the on-field decision.

Bankes acknowledged that slow-motion replays can alter perception but maintained that his real-time view was decisive.

“Obviously, different speeds can make things look different,” he said.

“In slow motion, it can look different to what you see live. I get one look at it, and I was more than happy that the two hands on the back had enough impact and was an offence.”

He accepted that opinions would be split but reiterated his stance.

“I understand there’s going to be split opinions on it, but for me I’m still comfortable that is enough for a free kick.”

Footage from Sky Sports’ referee camera showed Bankes telling Spurs players that it was a “clear foul”.

The decision proved pivotal in maintaining control of the contest for Arsenal.

Rather than facing renewed pressure at 2-2, Mikel Arteta’s side regained momentum and ultimately ran out convincing winners.

The result strengthened Arsenal’s position at the top of the Premier League table, while Tottenham were left to reflect on a moment that could have altered the complexion of the derby.

Although debate is likely to continue, Bankes has made clear that, from his perspective, the call was straightforward.

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