Penalty bottle row fuels calls for ban

Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford is under scrutiny after consulting a water bottle listing penalty takers during a loss to Leeds United.

Penalty bottle row fuels calls for ban

Everton lost 1-0 away to Leeds United in their opening Premier League match. Late in the game, Jordan Pickford was seen consulting a water bottle that reportedly lists likely penalty takers, a tactic he has used before. Lukas Nmecha converted a powerful spot kick past him, clinching the win for Leeds.

The episode sparked a heated debate. Jamie O'Hara on talkSPORT called for a ban on any penalty information on water bottles, saying it is unacceptable. Co-presenter Jason Cundy argued that such preparation is part of modern goalkeeping. England Lioness goalkeeper Hannah Hampton used a similar strategy in the Euro 2025 final; her notes were taped to her arm, and another keeper involved reportedly threw a bottle into the crowd. Everton’s next match is against Brighton & Hove Albion at home, keeping the focus on how teams prepare for penalties in high stakes moments.

The row shows how data and preparation have moved into the moment of contact in football. On one side, supporters argue that notes and scouting lead to better decisions and fair competition; on the other, critics worry about an uneven edge that can shape outcomes before the whistle. The debate may push governing bodies to clarify what is allowed on equipment and how teams prepare for penalties. In the wider trend, fans and players are watching closely as the sport wires data into sport ethics, with potential policy changes on the horizon.

Highlights

The outcome of this discussion could redefine pregame routines without dulling the edge of competition.