Former Premier League referee says England were 'incredibly lucky' to escape Ghana penalty

Former Premier League referee Mark Halsey has become the latest high-profile football figure to question the decision not to award Ghana a penalty in Tuesday's controversial World Cup draw against England.The Black Stars were left frustrated after referee Said Martinez and the VAR team ignored appeals when substitute Prince Kwabena Adu appeared to be brought down by England defender Ezri Konsa in the second half.While England escaped with a goalless draw, Halsey believes the Three Lions were fortunate not to leave the match empty-handed."Ezri Konsa was incredibly lucky not to concede a penalty," Halsey told SunSport."He dives in, does not play the ball and catches Ghana midfielder Prince Adu on the knee."Television replays appeared to show Konsa making contact with Adu without touching the ball, yet the incident was not reviewed by VAR.For Halsey, that was one of the most surprising aspects of the decision."It was not even mentioned as being looked at by VAR, so England can consider themselves fortunate they did not lose," he added.His comments add to a growing list of respected football figures who believe Ghana had a legitimate claim for a spot-kick.Former England captain Wayne Rooney said the challenge "could easily have been given", while former England defender Micah Richards admitted England were fortunate to avoid punishment.Former World Cup final assistant referee Darren Cann also sided with Ghana, insisting the incident should at least have been referred for an on-field review.The consensus among many neutral observers has only increased frustration within the Ghana camp.Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz did not hold back after the match, sarcastically questioning whether VAR was even working at the tournament."We still have VAR? It's working?" Queiroz said."It was a clear penalty."The decision could have had enormous consequences.Had Ghana been awarded the penalty and converted it, the Black Stars would likely have secured a famous victory over England and booked their place in the Round of 32 with a game to spare.Instead, qualification remains unresolved heading into Saturday's decisive clash with Croatia.