Arne Engels criticised over overlooked moment as West Ham share points with QPR

Arne Engels has come under criticism following an overlooked moment during West Ham United’s frustrating draw against Queens Park Rangers at the London Stadium on Friday night.

The Belgian midfielder endured a difficult outing, although he was far from the only West Ham player who struggled to make a positive impact on the game.

The Hammers’ disappointing performance ultimately cost them the opportunity to claim all three points, with missed chances and a controversial penalty decision proving significant talking points.

The match could have unfolded differently had Nicolas Madsen not been given the opportunity to score from the penalty spot, while Jarrod Bowen also missed a penalty at the other end.

A spot-kick awarded against Tomas Soucek became one of the game’s biggest talking points, but the controversy also diverted attention from Engels’ own performance.

Despite West Ham’s struggles, questions have been raised about the decision to award QPR a penalty in the first place.

Although referee Ruebyn Ricardo pointed to the spot, former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett believes the official made the wrong call.

Speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone, Hackett argued that the West Ham player made contact with the ball while attempting to win the challenge, before the opposition player went to ground.

He suggested that West Ham had every reason to feel aggrieved, adding that the club would also be frustrated because the challenge appeared to have taken place outside the penalty area.

While the controversial decision dominated much of the post-match discussion, Engels’ performance remains another issue for West Ham to consider after a disappointing evening in East London.