Referees' chief Howard Webb has confirmed the disallowal of West Ham's late goal against Arsenal was correct, calling Pablo's foul on goalkeeper David Raya "categorically" a penalty. The decision gave Arsenal a 1-0 win in a match that impacted Premier League standings at both ends of the table, with Mikel Arteta praising the courage shown while Nuno Espirito Santo criticized inconsistency.

Webb explained that holding a goalkeeper's arms to prevent them from doing their job must be penalized, regardless of other potential fouls. The VAR audio revealed officials considered multiple incidents but focused on the contact with Raya as the most significant offense. Webb emphasized that Raya couldn't perform his normal duties due to the interference, justifying the intervention.

The ruling comes as grappling in penalty areas has become a theme this season. Webb announced consultations will occur at season's end to address how officials should police these situations, acknowledging increased challenges from set-piece coaches seeking marginal gains. More holding penalties have been called this season, but officials admit some have been missed amid the evolving tactics.