'PGMOL officials stink!' - English referees slammed as 'the worst in football' after PSV's Champions League goal allowed to stand after Malik Tillman's controversial throw in

The Dutch champions hosted the Spanish side at Philips Stadium, and while the fixture was anticipated for its competitive edge, the conversation quickly shifted to the officiating after a disputed throw-in resulted in a PSV goal. The controversy unfolded in the 16th minute when PSV defender Ryan Flamingo headed in a goal from a long throw delivered by Malik Tillman. While the home crowd celebrated the early lead, many fans questioned whether Tillman's throw-in was even legal as it seemed that the USMNT star had stepped over the white line.

Later on, Ismael Saibari had a strike ruled out after appearing to stand on a defender's foot while dribbling into the penalty area. Again, this was met with frustration on social media at the standard of officiating.

Regarding Flamingo's goal, @TheonlyDG wrote: "David Coote has just allowed a goal for PSV from a blatant foul throw 😂 PGMOL officials stink."

Meanwhile, a United fan, @United4Life_20, wrote: "English officiating proving to be absolutely shocking once again, clear as day foul throw and David Coote on VAR giving the goal. Abysmal, shocking, embarrassing, pure incompetence. They need to be held accountable this is unacceptable #VAR #UCL @UEFA @FA_PGMOL @premierleague."

@N_Macca74 echoed these thoughts and wrote: "David Coote fks up again on VAR….foul throw and PSV score directly from it. We really have got the worst officials in football."

@roguedr0id wrote: "VAR in PSV game asleep? Shocking."

Whereas, @AVFCJoshuaa wrote: "How has that goal even stood?!?! He’s miles on the pitch when he takes the throw?! DAVID COOTE ON VAR 😭 WE ARE COOKED."

When Saibari's effort was disallowed, @footballmurph wrote: "That is a shocking decision against PSV for the 3rd goal. The player has the ball and shields himself off a CB. Defender falls over theatrically and VAR call the goal off. I give up! English officials. Would have thought a more physical view on the game and less falling about.

@MissSimber2, meanwhile, sarcastically commented: "One of the worst VAR decisions I’ve seen for a long time in the PSV v Girona game. Surprised to see it’s the English officials involved."

After considerable scrutiny, the first goal was ultimately permitted to stand, a decision attributed to the exact positioning of Tillman’s feet during the throw. Upon review, it was noted that Tillman's rear studs remained on the line, technically making the throw legal according to FIFA rules. However, Saibari's strike remains subject of debate.

Flamingo’s goal, though shrouded in controversy, marked a milestone for PSV. His strike made him the first Dutch player to score with his maiden shot on target in the Champions League. Additionally, the goal carried historical significance as it became only the second goal ever scored by a Dutch team in the competition directly from a throw-in situation. The previous instance dates back to 2003 when PSV capitalised on a similar play against Deportivo de La Coruna.

PSV nonetheless secured the three points against ten-man Girona with a sizeable victory. The Dutch side will return to action against NAC in the Eredivisie on Sunday.