The Premier League aimed to prevent the newly promoted team from reaching the top two as Everton handled the ball with an open hand inside the penalty area, but the referee deemed it legal.

In the early hours of October 4th Beijing time, the 10th round of the Premier League concluded with the final match where the newly promoted Sunderland hosted Everton. If Sunderland could win this home game against Everton, they would surpass Manchester City and rise to second place in the Premier League standings, which is why many fans and media paid close attention to the Sunderland vs. Everton match this season’s strongest dark horse, the "Black Cats" Sunderland.

The match featured a highly controversial decision in the 72nd minute when Sadik’s cross inside the box struck Everton’s left center-back Keane’s hand. Initially, the referee did not award a penalty, and after VAR review, the original decision was upheld.

The Premier League’s official explanation for not awarding Sunderland a penalty was that after VAR inspection and confirmation, it was determined that Keane’s hand was in a legitimate position.

Fans, however, were quick to comment: Keane’s handball clearly extended beyond his body and affected the ball’s trajectory, so how could that not be a penalty? The Premier League matches may be exciting, but there are indeed too many referees who seem to be "blind monks." Perhaps they are deliberately "wearing sunglasses" when officiating, not because they are truly blind, but because their directives are clear!

Sunderland drew 1-1 with Everton, turning a potential 3 points into just 1, losing the chance to climb to second place in the Premier League, but still rising to fourth with the point gained. Maybe the Premier League authorities don’t want newly promoted teams to rank in the top two! This undermines the strength of top clubs and damages the league’s image.