Everton right to demand PGMOL answers and it could have big relegation say

Everton's search for answers over controversial decisions continued this week as the club sought an explanation over Anthony Gordon's Merseyside derby penalty claim.

Frank Lampard was adamant the Blues should have had a penalty after his young star tumbled as he battled with Joel Matip. In the aftermath he claimed Liverpool would have been awarded a spot kick had the roles been reversed, adding: "It was a clear foul. But you don't get them here."

While he said he had no plans to speak to referee Stuart Attwell over the decision, it emerged on Monday the club would be seeking details from the Professional Game Match Officials Board (PGMOL) over why the incident did not receive more scrutiny.

A number of pundits and analysts believed the Blues should have won what would have been a crucial penalty with the scores still level. Even the PGMOL, responsible for match officials in English football, reportedly said there would have been "no complaints" from them had it been given.

Everton's decision to raise concern with the body will not change the past, that is true. But it is fair for the club to demand accountability and transparency. The Blues are in a position where such big decisions could be the difference between Premier League survival and relegation. The system has failed them in the past - most notably leading to an apology from the PGMOL over the failure to award a penalty for handball in the 1-0 home defeat to Manchester City. A number of other big decisions have gone against the Blues as rules appear to have been applied inconsistently. Allan's suspension following his red card against Newcastle United was particularly costl y.

The club has every right to seek answers, to be aggressive in highlighting its