The Blues extended their unbeaten streak to 15 league games, thanks to a 23rd-minute goal from Jay Stansfield, the league’s top scorer with 16 goals in 23 appearances. Fans are now looking ahead to the upcoming EFL Trophy semi-final against Bradford City, as Chris Davies’ squad eyes a Wembley final.
However, the match wasn’t without controversy. A major talking point was referee Seb Stockbridge’s decision not to penalize Charlton’s goalkeeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer for what appeared to be a handball outside the penalty area.
Many supporters took to social media to express their frustration over the officiating. One fan wrote on X: “Another crucial win for the Blues! But the refereeing was shocking. Unbelievable decision!” Another added: “Both Blues and Charlton fans can agree—officiating in this league is awful.”
The controversy unfolded when Birmingham goalkeeper Ryan Allsop launched a long ball down the right flank towards Stansfield. Maynard-Brewer rushed out to clear the danger but appeared to handle the ball before it reached the penalty area. Despite protests from Birmingham’s bench, including an animated response from Chris Davies that earned him a booking, the referee took no action against the Charlton keeper.
Ex-Premier League referee and PGMOL Chief Keith Hackett shared his thoughts on the incident with Football Insider, saying:
“It looked to me like he handled the ball outside the box and pulled it in. The referee has to be certain before making a call, but in this case, it seems like the goalkeeper was fortunate. It’s one of the hardest areas to judge from the referee’s position, and the assistant’s angle wasn’t ideal either. Without clear evidence, the benefit of the doubt usually goes to the defender.
Despite the controversy, Birmingham remain on track for promotion and are now nine points clear at the top of League One. The club is also progressing with its plans for a new stadium, reinforcing its long-term ambitions of returning to the Premier League.