Tony Mowbray vows to challenge PGMOL after Wolves’ last‑minute penalty

Blackburn Rovers manager Tony Mowbray will confront the PGMOL after Wolves salvaged a 2‑2 draw on Friday night, courtesy of a contentious late penalty that saw Raul Jimenez score in the third minute of stoppage time, denying his side an opening three points.

Early advantage for Wolves

Marshall Munetsi gave Wolves the lead after just 18 minutes, capitalising on a quick start at Molineux. The goal set the tone for the visitors, who were already tipped for relegation this season.

Blackburn Rovers responded through Sean McLoughlin, who restored parity before Andri Gudjohnsen struck to put the visitors ahead again. The visitors then defended their advantage throughout the second half, appearing poised to secure a shock result against the former Premier League side.

As the clock ticked, Wolves maintained their lead, and the match seemed destined for a Wolves victory. However, in the dying moments a cross reached Ryan Alebiosu, whose arm appeared to deflect the ball.

Penalty controversy

Referee Farai Hallam pointed to the spot, judging Alebiosu’s arm to be inside the box despite replays showing his body outside the area. The decision sparked outrage, with Mowbray shaking his head on the touchline as the penalty was awarded.

Raul Jimenez stepped up and converted the spot‑kick, his last‑gasp spot‑kick equalising in the third minute of stoppage time. A Getty photograph captured the moment Jimenez's goal on his return to Molineux secured a point for the relegated side.

When the final whistle blew, the points were shared, but Mowbray stormed down the tunnel, still shaking his head. He was seen shaking hands with the opposition’s dugout before heading straight to the dressing room, visibly furious at the outcome.

Later, the Blackburn manager told talkSPORT he would speak to the PGMOL’s Select Group 2 Manager Kevin Friend to question the decision. “We’re obviously disappointed,” Mowbray said. “If it’s in the 93rd minute, you have to be 100 per cent sure… the still I’ve seen looks to me outside the box.”