Arsenal Coach Explains Controversial Handball Incident

Arsenal's assistant coach Aaron D'Antino addressed a contentious penalty awarded against defender Leah Williamson during their Women's Champions League draw with Paris FC, stating the team will use the incident as a learning experience.

D'Antino explained that the intention was for Williamson to take the goal-kick, and the ball was still rolling when an opponent moved to claim it. "If we're looking at what we can control, it's just passing the ball to Leah from what I remember seeing. The ball was still rolling and she [Rodriguez] was moving it to Leah for her to take the goal-kicks as we normally do," D'Antino said. "So maybe the learning in that is how we get the ball to Leah, so we don't put ourselves in that situation."

However, former Arsenal and Scotland defender Jen Beattie expressed strong disagreement with the referee's decision, despite acknowledging the correct application of the laws. "For me, I just don't even know how that happens. Leah knows it's a goal-kick, she's catching the ball. That's shocking from the referee," Beattie told Paramount+.

Beattie added, "I would have been fuming and I would have been embarrassed if they gave that. This is not what they're trying to do. It's just beyond frustrating that that's how they've tied the game. Leah's obviously going [to do that] because she's going to take the goal-kick, not because she's worried about the press or trying to change it - or panicking in any situation. Leah Williamson doesn't panic in those moments, she knows what she's doing. The goalkeeper knows what she's doing as well. The referee has miscalled it."

The incident occurred during Arsenal's Women's Champions League match against Paris FC, which ended in a draw. This commentary comes from the BBC Sport's Ask Me Anything team.