David Moyes dismisses reason behind West Ham's late penalty controversy in Freiburg defeat

David Moyes was left bemused after his West Ham side were denied a crucial penalty deep into stoppage time in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 meeting with Freiburg.

The Hammers head to the London Stadium for next week’s return trailing 1-0 after Michael Gregoritsch’s close-range finish settled a cagey first leg in the home side’s favour.

However, West Ham looked set to be given a late chance to level when Tomas Soucek’s attempt to keep the ball alive struck the raised arm of Freiburg winger Noah Weisshaupt just inside the box and VAR ordered a review.

The resulting check lasted more than four minutes before referee Alejandro Hernandez eventually decided to stick with his on-field decision, much to West Ham’s dismay.

"If we'd had it given against us, we'd probably think it was harsh, but ultimately I have to say what are you doing with your hands above your head?" Moyes said.

"They are trying to claim there might have been a slight push and that's why it wasn't given - but they should have restarted the game with a free-kick if they said it was a push.

"It certainly wasn't enough of a push to warrant a free-kick, so that shouldn't mean that it should even come into consideration. The boy has two arms above his head.

"In the Premier League, I am not sure that would be given, but in UEFA competitions in Europe they're normally given by the referees. I watch Spanish football and German football and nearly every handball is seen.

"If you think of the one we had against Kurt [Zouma at Everton] the other day, but we just have to take it and move on."