Theo Walcott apologises for diving in match against Leeds United
Arsenal’s young right winger and English international, Theo Walcott, has apologised and admitted that he dived in order to win a penalty during Arsenal’s 1-1 FA Cup third round draw against Leeds United at Emirates Stadium.
Leeds United scored an early second half goal at the Emirates through http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Robert-c31222 Snodgrass’s penalty to put the home side under pressure. The 21-year-old winger came on in the second half, as a substitute to change the course of the game, as Arsenal were one
goal down against the Championship side in a knock-out fixture.
The English winger found himself in the thick of the action as the Gunners pressed for a survivor by going on an all out attack. In the dying minutes of the match, Walcott looked to have fouled and won the spot-kick after being tackled by http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Paul-c29347 Connolly inside
the Leeds United box.
But, referee Phil Dowd, who had already pointed towards the penalty spot, changed his mind after consulting with his assistant.
A few minutes later, a penalty was given to Phil Dowd after Theo Walcott was fouled by Ben Parker. Cesc Fabregas stepped up to take the penalty and the young skipper efficiently placed the ball in the middle of the net to earn his team a much needed equaliser
and a replay at Eland Road.
http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Theo-Walcott-c34873 was apologetic for his action and told Arsenal’s official website that he wants to say sorry to the managers for his failed action to win the penalty.
He said, " I own up to it and apologise. It is something I don't want to see in my game".
Walcott continued, "I have heard some players say 'if there is a slight touch, go down' and it can work both ways. It was one of those things”.
Arsenal winger claimed that he was not happy with himself after diving but insisted that he is happy as Arsenal managed to get a goal and drew the match.
Walcott stated, “I don't have to own up to it and I can't speak for other players, but I have just expressed how I feel. I hope people respect that".
Tags: