VAR

Subterms

    More stories

    • 225 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd get lucky escape as Joao Pedro goal controversially ruled out by VAR for foul on Diogo Dalot

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED got a lucky escape as VAR ruled out Brighton from taking the lead at Old Trafford. The Seagulls were leading United thanks to Yankuba Minteh’s opener on five minutes.VAR deemed this a foul on Diogo DalotBut a mistake at the back cost the visitor’s and Joshua Zirkzee was through on goal.That was until Carlos Baleba dragged him to the ground – allowing Bruno Fernandes to level from the spot on 23 minutes.The game was level when Brighton got a free-kick ten minutes after the break. And in a calamitous display of defending at the back, Joao Pedro pounced in the box to score. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut after a VAR check, Jan Paul van Hecke was adjudged to have fouled Diogo Dalot in the build up. Dalot just got his foot to the ball first, with Van Hecke following through and nicking his boot – enough for it to be deemed a foul. Premier League’s Match Centre service clarified: “The referee’s call of goal was checked by VAR, who deemed there was a foul by van Hecke on Dalot in the build-up and recommended an on-field review. “The referee overturned the original decision and the goal was disallowed.”Most read in FootballBut United’s blushes were spared only momentarily as minutes later Kaoru Mitoma converted from a back post cross to make it 2-1.And a calamitous mistake from keeper Andre Onana gifted Georginio Rutter the chance to make it 3-1 and seal the victory.It leaves United 13th in the league. More

    • 213 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘This seriously needs investigating’ – Arsenal fans lose their heads over Premier League tweet about disallowed goal

      by

      ARSENAL fans were left fuming after the Premier League addressed VAR’s controversial decision to disallow Mikel Merino’s last-gasp winner against Aston Villa.The Gunners dropped crucial points at the Emirates to Villa as two second-half goals within eight minutes by Youri Tielemans and Ollie Watkins cancelled out Gabriel Martinelli and Havertz’s strikes.Arsenal thought they’d earned all three points when Mikel Merino’s strike deflected off Kai Havertz and into the netCredit: RexBut VAR determined that the ball had hit Havertz’s handArsenal fans were furious with the Premier League’s tweetHowever, the North Londoners thought they saved their blushes in the 87th minute when Mikel Merino fired a shot from the edge of the box and the ball deflected off the Germany international.The goal was awarded by referee Chris Kavanagh but VAR recommended that it should be disallowed for handball.The camera angles showed the ball hitting Havertz’s hand, though a minority of fans were unconvinced.And the wording of the Premier League official accounts tweet added fuel to the fire for Arsenal fans.Read More on ArsenalThat was because it stated that the ball had “clearly” struck the German’s hand.The Prem’s official account tweeted: “NO GOAL! @Arsenal think they have a third, but Mikel Merino’s effort clearly strikes Kai Havertz’ hand on the way in.”The Premier League’s take enraged several Arsenal fans who insisted there was no clear handball.Some even suggested there should be an “investigation”, considering this came from the Prem’s official handle.Most read in FootballOne fan tweeted: “Where? Where is the handball? Show me the hand ball!”Best new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesAnother commented: “It’s an absolute disgrace. It’s happened to Arsenal again. This seriously needs investigating now. The ball hits his side, and even it does hit his arm it’s not in an unnatural position.”A third wrote: “I mean, this photo doesn’t show it hitting his arm. I’m not saying it hasn’t, but I haven’t seen clear and obvious. THIS is what millimeter-action video would actually be useful for.”Lone sad Arsenal fan being asked to leave by securityThis fan said: “Feel so sorry for Arsenal fans. Clearly hits Havertz’s midriff. Even slowed down on VAR it’s clear to see. Go to Specsavers lads. I used to work there I’ll get you a good deal.”And that one stated: “Clearly? This is the official EPL handle…..Wow!”Arsenal ratings vs Aston VillaArsenal’s title hopes took a huge hit as they threw away a two-goal lead against Aston VillaLeandro Trossard turned provider for the Gunners to set up both goals as it looked like they would cruise to three points.But defensive lapses from two stars cost Arteta’s side dearly.Here is how SunSport’s Jordan Davies rated the players…DAVID RAYA – 6/10Let down by those in front of him for both goals, a duo of close range efforts he had no chance with.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 8With performances like this, he is suddenly the first name on the team sheet for Arteta. So calm and composed for someone so young, and his strength against bigger opposition is scary at times.GABRIEL – 7Made a crucial tackle one-on-one with Watkins and another block from a speedy counterJURRIEN TIMBER – 7Alert to foil counters against the pace of Watkins and coped well in general. It is not his fault that he doesn’t have the defensive presence of Saliba.THOMAS PARTEY – 6A great stint at right back but one lapse in concentration cost Arsenal the lead, losing track of Watkins in the box before he volleyed in.MIKEL MERINO – 6A workman-like performance – won his duels and worked his socks off, but the small details were missing, shanking a good chance well wide in the first half.He then lost his marker to allow Tielemans to head in and make it 2-1. Could have won it at the end with a scuffed effort in off Havertz that VAR chalked off and smacked the post too.DECLAN RICE – 7Integral to everything good about Arsenal and came close with a long-range punt in the second half.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 6A solid display but he is really missing his partner in crime in Saka. He created as much as he could but sometimes needs to be more selfish to drag his team over the line.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 8Deflected effort was comfortable for Martinez but his superb cross made life much harder for the Villa keeper to tee up Martinelli for the opener before blazing over himself.The Belgian racked up his fifth Prem assist of the season in the second half for Havertz.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 8Threatened at the far post early on, but got his rewards from the same position in the 35th minute with a stabbed effort ahead of Maatsen.KAI HAVERTZ – 8Again, lack of decent service left him living off scraps, but when he got a scrap he fired an effort straight at Martinez from close range.The German more than made up for it after the break with a clinical finish, even if Martinez should have done better. That will do wonders for his confidence.SUBS:RAHEEM STERLING (MARTINELLI, 82) – 6A few darting runs, but added virtually nothing, other than a needless yellow card. A cameo that screamed “lacking confidence”. More

    • 175 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Meaning behind VAR’s cryptic four-word message to referee after controversial Chelsea decision made history

      by

      VAR delivered a cryptic four-word message to referee Robert Jones before he made history during Chelsea’s clash with Bournemouth.During the Tuesday night game at Stamford Bridge, Jones became the first PL referee to reject a red-card review at the pitch-side monitor.Marc Cucurella was fouled by David BrooksCredit: APThe decision was put up to a VAR reviewCredit: TNT SportsRobert Jones went over to check the monitor and made history by not giving out a red cardCredit: RexJones was told by VAR Graham Scott ‘It’s in your gift’Credit: AlamyCherries star David Brooks had allegedly committed a foul on Marc Cucurella that was originally worthy of a red card while the score was 1-1.Jones was sent to the monitor for review with VAR Graham Scott to decide on the possible dismissal.However, Jones ultimately concluded that it was a yellow card, thus making history by rejecting the decision to send Brooks off.Mail Sport have revealed that Scott told Jones, “It’s in your gift”, in relation to Jones having the final say on the matter.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe report adds that refereeing sources explained all options – take no action, yellow or red card – were available to use, with Scott’s comments a sentiment used by PGMOL in such scenarios.Audio of the incident could be broadcast to fans on the Match Officials Mic’d Up show, hosted by ref chief Howard Webb.Bournemouth took a 2-1 lead following the incident before Reece James slammed home a stunning injury-time free-kick.The Blues had taken the lead through Cole Palmer and dominated most of the first half.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSHowever, Justin Kluivert equalised early in the second half from the penalty spot before Antoine Semenyo smashed home a near-post shot to take the lead.The result leaves Chelsea without a win in five league games, while Bournemouth are unbeaten in ten games across all competitions.Chelsea activate Trevoh Chalobah recall clause just hours before he was due to play for Crystal Palace against LeicesterChelsea player ratings vs BournemouthCHELSEA failed to win for their fourth Prem outing in a row as they drew 2-2 with Bournemouth.Having taken the lead through Cole Palmer, things went very wrong in the second half.Justin Kluivert scored from the spot after a poor challenge from Moise Caicedo led to the penalty. Antoine Semenyo then put the Cherries in front.But up stepped Reece James to fire in a brilliant 95th minute penalty and salvage a point.Here’s how the players rated…Robert Sanchez – 5His (or Enzo Maresca’s) insistence on playing the “riskiest pass in football” almost cost his side in the first half, but he wasn’t caught out on this occasion. Couldn’t do an awful lot about either of the goals, a pretty average performance.Moises Caicedo – 3Was solid in the first half if not a little fortunate not to be booked for a few “tactical” fouls. However, he got caught out in the second 45 and gave away a penalty through a poorly timed tackle on Semenyo. Not the kind of performance we’ve become accustomed to seeing from him as his passes too often went astray.Josh Acheampong – 5Made a few good blocks and tackles in the first half, but was easily beaten by Semenyo before he smashed home the goal that put Bournemouth in the lead. Looked a little inexperienced out there, but you can tell he has quality – was taken off for Tosin in the second half shortly after the goal, who you would imagine will take the starting spot going forward.Levi Colwill – 6Imperious in the air and across the ground in the first half. Didn’t do a lot wrong truth be told, but no clean sheet cost him a higher score.Marc Cucurella – 6Stepped into his tackles well and was solid throughout the game, keeping David Brooks quiet on the right for Bournemouth. Wasn’t as influential in an attacking sense as we have seen him be this season, but still did a decent job.Romeo Lavia – 5Dominant in midfield in the first half, and was brilliant in transition, looking like a master of his craft. Unfortunately, a second-half mistake saw him caught out which led to the Bournemouth penalty before he was then booked for a late tackle. Was taken off shortly after he was booked and replaced by Reece James.Enzo Fernández (c) – 6Worked well as he had done previously when given the license to roam forward, knowing he had Lavia and Caicedo behind him. Bournemouth’s midfield had no answer to him with the ball at his feet, but as for many of the Blues, he was much quieter in the second half.Noni Madueke – 6Arguably deserved a first-half assist after he left a defender on the floor with a mazy run from the right-hand side, but Nicolas Jackson fluffed his lines in front of goal. Continued his good work on the ball in the second half and generally created some good chances that weren’t finished.Cole Palmer – 8Looked like he was out to impress from the start, with a cheeky nutmeg followed by a Lampard vs Hull-esque dink early on which didn’t come off. This was all before the 12th minute where he sat interim goalkeeper Mark Travers on his backside with a fake shot before slotting home for the opening goal. He created good chances too for Jackson, but faded pretty heavily after his goal.Jadon Sancho – 4Two nutmegs in quick succession was the highlight of his first half, but he was pretty quiet throughout the 90 minutes.Nicolas Jackson – 6His first half performance would have had fans raving about how he is the second coming of Didier Drogba. But his second half reminded us of why he’s not, with two huge bites at the Cherries missed that ultimately cost his side.SUBSReece James (Romeo Lavia, 56) – 8Made the perfect comeback from his injury woes, with a rocket of a free-kick guided into the bottom right corner. Looked strong and composed on the ball after his introduction.Tosin Adarabioyo (Josh Acheampong, 71) – 7Brought a bit more presence and leadership to a Chelsea team that looked as though it was lacking exactly that tonight. Had a good header saved by Travers at the death, you’d imagine he will be starting against Wolves.Joao Felix (Moises Caicedo, 80) – 6Did really well with limited minutes on the pitch after being bought on. A tame effort on goal was saved by the Bournemouth keeper, but it was his mazy dribbling that won the free-kick that James fired home to equalise.Pedro Neto (Noni Madueke, 80) – 5Didn’t get long enough to properly warm into the game and Chelsea didn’t find him enough, could probably count his touches on your fingers. More

    • 200 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Premier League referee makes history as he refuses to send off Bournemouth star who ‘clotheslined Cucurella’

      by

      PREMIER LEAGUE referee Robert Jones made history when he refused to send off David Brooks for a “clothesline” challenge on Marc Cucurella.The incident occurred during last night’s clash between Chelsea and Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge.Robert Jones made history during Chelsea’s 2-2 draw with BournemouthCredit: ReutersVAR recommended a red card review for David Brooks’ ‘clothesline’ on Marc CucurellaThe Blues took the lead through Cole Palmer before the visitors turned the game on its head for 2-1.And it took a last-gasp Reece James free-kick to rescue a point for Enzo Maresca’s side, who have now gone five games without a win.However, Chelsea felt they were hard done by when Cucurella was smashed by Brooks while making a forward run.Bournemouth’s Welshman appeared to “clothesline” the Spaniard, according to fans online.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd it saw VAR recommend a red card review for violent conduct at the pitchside monitor.However, referee Jones did not see things the same way.After watching a replay of the incident, he went against VAR’s recommendation and instead gave Brooks a yellow card.It marked the first time in Premier League history that a referee has rejected a red-card review at the monitor.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSIt was also the first VAR monitor rejection this season.And the Premier League’s Match Centre explained Jones’ thinking in a social media post.The one player Chelsea must sign this seasonJones rejected the red card recommendation, the first one in Premier League historyCredit: ReutersFans were left baffled by the decisionCredit: GettyIt read: “VAR recommended an on-field review for a possible red card to Brooks for violent conduct.“Upon review, the referee deemed that the challenge on Cucurella was a reckless action and not violent conduct — and issue a yellow card to Brooks.”Fans certainly felt the decision should have been a red card.One said: “Blatant and deliberate. Red card all day.”Another declared: “Pure embarrassment.”One noted: “Blatant red, that’s a wrestling move.”Another added: “Clotheslines now allowed in football.”Chelsea player ratings vs BournemouthCHELSEA failed to win for their fourth Prem outing in a row as they drew 2-2 with Bournemouth.Having taken the lead through Cole Palmer, things went very wrong in the second half.Justin Kluivert scored from the spot after a poor challenge from Moise Caicedo led to the penalty. Antoine Semenyo then put the Cherries in front.But up stepped Reece James to fire in a brilliant 95th minute penalty and salvage a point.Here’s how the players rated…Robert Sanchez – 5His (or Enzo Maresca’s) insistence on playing the “riskiest pass in football” almost cost his side in the first half, but he wasn’t caught out on this occasion. Couldn’t do an awful lot about either of the goals, a pretty average performance.Moises Caicedo – 3Was solid in the first half if not a little fortunate not to be booked for a few “tactical” fouls. However, he got caught out in the second 45 and gave away a penalty through a poorly timed tackle on Semenyo. Not the kind of performance we’ve become accustomed to seeing from him as his passes too often went astray.Josh Acheampong – 5Made a few good blocks and tackles in the first half, but was easily beaten by Semenyo before he smashed home the goal that put Bournemouth in the lead. Looked a little inexperienced out there, but you can tell he has quality – was taken off for Tosin in the second half shortly after the goal, who you would imagine will take the starting spot going forward.Levi Colwill – 6Imperious in the air and across the ground in the first half. Didn’t do a lot wrong truth be told, but no clean sheet cost him a higher score.Marc Cucurella – 6Stepped into his tackles well and was solid throughout the game, keeping David Brooks quiet on the right for Bournemouth. Wasn’t as influential in an attacking sense as we have seen him be this season, but still did a decent job.Romeo Lavia – 5Dominant in midfield in the first half, and was brilliant in transition, looking like a master of his craft. Unfortunately, a second-half mistake saw him caught out which led to the Bournemouth penalty before he was then booked for a late tackle. Was taken off shortly after he was booked and replaced by Reece James.Enzo Fernández (c) – 6Worked well as he had done previously when given the license to roam forward, knowing he had Lavia and Caicedo behind him. Bournemouth’s midfield had no answer to him with the ball at his feet, but as for many of the Blues, he was much quieter in the second half.Noni Madueke – 6Arguably deserved a first-half assist after he left a defender on the floor with a mazy run from the right-hand side, but Nicolas Jackson fluffed his lines in front of goal. Continued his good work on the ball in the second half and generally created some good chances that weren’t finished.Cole Palmer – 8Looked like he was out to impress from the start, with a cheeky nutmeg followed by a Lampard vs Hull-esque dink early on which didn’t come off. This was all before the 12th minute where he sat interim goalkeeper Mark Travers on his backside with a fake shot before slotting home for the opening goal. He created good chances too for Jackson, but faded pretty heavily after his goal.Jadon Sancho – 4Two nutmegs in quick succession was the highlight of his first half, but he was pretty quiet throughout the 90 minutes.Nicolas Jackson – 6His first half performance would have had fans raving about how he is the second coming of Didier Drogba. But his second half reminded us of why he’s not, with two huge bites at the Cherries missed that ultimately cost his side.SUBSReece James (Romeo Lavia, 56) – 8Made the perfect comeback from his injury woes, with a rocket of a free-kick guided into the bottom right corner. Looked strong and composed on the ball after his introduction.Tosin Adarabioyo (Josh Acheampong, 71) – 7Brought a bit more presence and leadership to a Chelsea team that looked as though it was lacking exactly that tonight. Had a good header saved by Travers at the death, you’d imagine he will be starting against Wolves.Joao Felix (Moises Caicedo, 80) – 6Did really well with limited minutes on the pitch after being bought on. A tame effort on goal was saved by the Bournemouth keeper, but it was his mazy dribbling that won the free-kick that James fired home to equalise.Pedro Neto (Noni Madueke, 80) – 5Didn’t get long enough to properly warm into the game and Chelsea didn’t find him enough, could probably count his touches on your fingers. More

    • 200 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Is VAR used in the FA Cup 3rd round? Video Assistant Referee ruling for the cup

      by

      THE FA Cup third round is here as the Premier League’s giants join in from this stage.But how does the video assistant referee system work with the lower league clubs, and when is it being used from?VAR in use in the FA Cup last seasonCredit: The TimesLast season, Manchester United won the FA Cup by defeating local rivals Manchester City 2-1 at Wembley.However, manager Erik ten Hag was sacked later in the year in October after earning a reprieve by winning the cup.On the way to reaching the final, United received an almighty VAR call in their favour in their semi-final victory over Coventry City.This time round, United are opening up with a blockbuster all-Premier League clash at Arsenal.But will the video assistant referee (VAR) be used in the match?Coventry had VAR heartbreak against Man Utd last seasonCredit: GettyIs VAR used in the FA Cup 3rd round?No. VAR will not be used in the FA Cup until the fifth round stage.Previously VAR was used in the FA Cup in the third and fourth rounds, but only at Premier League stadiums due to “due to the infrastructure, workforce and costs that are required for its operation.”The FA said in a statement: “Video Assistant Referees (VAR) will only be used in the 2024-25 Emirates FA Cup from the Fifth Round onwards. Most read in FA Cup”It has been agreed that VAR will be utilised for every match in the Fifth Round of the competition through to the Final at Wembley Stadium, and will not be in operation for the Third and Fourth Rounds. “VAR has only been used in the Emirates FA Cup previously for matches at Wembley Stadium and at Premier League grounds due to the infrastructure, workforce and costs that are required for its operation. “This decision ensures that there is a consistent refereeing approach for all clubs taking part in the same stage of the competition.”What FA Cup third round games are on TV?Thursday, January 97pm – Sheffield United vs Cardiff City (BBC Wales)7.45pm – Everton vs Peterborough United (BBC iPlayer)7.45pm – Fulham vs WatfordFriday, January 107.45pm – Wycombe Wanderers vs Portsmouth8pm – Aston Villa vs West Ham United (ITV1, ITVX and STV)Saturday, January 1112pmBristol City vs Wolverhampton WanderersBirmingham City vs Lincoln CityMiddlesbrough vs Blackburn Rovers12.15pmLiverpool vs Accrington Stanley (ITV1, ITVX and STV)3pmExeter City vs Oxford UnitedPreston North End vs Charlton AthleticAFC Bournemouth vs West Bromwich AlbionReading vs BurnleySunderland vs Stoke CityNottingham Forest vs Luton TownBrentford vs Plymouth ArgyleNorwich City vs Brighton & Hove AlbionChelsea vs Morecambe (BBC Extended Highlights)Leicester City vs Queens Park Rangers (BBC Extended Highlights)5.45pmMan City vs Salford City (BBC One and iPlayer)Leeds United vs Harrogate Town (BBC iPlayer)6pmLeyton Orient vs Derby CountyCoventry City vs Sheffield WednesdayMansfield Town vs Wigan AthleticSunday, January 1212pmHull City vs Doncaster Rovers12.30pmTamworth vs Tottenham Hotspur (ITV1, ITVX and STV)3pmArsenal vs Man Utd (BBC One and iPlayer)Newcastle United vs Bromley (BBC iPlayer)Ipswich Town vs Bristol RoversCrystal Palace vs Stockport County4.30pmSouthampton vs Swansea City (BBC Wales)READ MORE SUN STORIESMonday, January 137.30pm – Millwall vs Dagenham & Redbridge (ITV4 and ITVX) More

    • 263 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘Genuinely what’s the point of VAR?’ – Fans fume as ‘unbelievable’ audio reveals why ref changed mind on Duran red card

      by

      FOOTBALL fans have been left scratching their heads once again after the audio was released for the VAR decision to send off Jhon Duran against Newcastle.Duran was dismissed during the Magpies’ 3-0 win over Villa on Boxing Day following an incident that saw his studs scrape up the back of Fabian Schar.Jhon Duran was sent off against Newcastle on boxing dayCredit: ReutersDuran was deemed to have deliberately stood on Fabian Schar’s backCredit: GettyDuran was left fuming with the decisionCredit: GettyThe officials’ audio of the incident has now been releasedCredit: Sky SportsThe Villa striker was deemed to have deliberately stood on Schar’s back and was shown a straight red card by referee Anthony Taylor at the time.But the decision left Villa manager Unai Emery seething, he said: “Three matches for this red card is hard to accept. There was no action with the intention to kick him.”.Aston Villa later had an appeal against the decision rejected, meaning Duran’s three-game ban remained in place.And the reasons behind the decision not being overturned have now been revealed on ‘Match Officials Mic’d Up’ after the audio from the incident was shown.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFollowing Duran’s fall to the ground, both the fourth official and assistant referee appear to tell Anthony Taylor that they believe it was accidental.Fourth official Leigh Doughty can be heard saying: “It looks accidental from here”. While one of the assistant refs claims the incident is “reckless” and not dangerous, suggesting Duran should be cautioned and not sent off.He said: “So Duran steps on the back. For me, it’s a reckless act rather than anything more. He’s sort of trying to stop and then lands in the wrong place. So Duran, caution.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHowever, Anthony Taylor makes his own decision instead of taking the advice of his colleagues, citing Fabian Schar “holding somewhere else” on his body as the reason to show red. Taylor can he heard saying: “Hang on, he [Schar] is holding somewhere else here [on his body]. I’m going red card”.Aston Villa hothead Jhon Duran rages as he’s subbed moments after scoring and kicks back of team-mate’s chair Fans have been left confused and frustrated that Taylor seemed to change his decision based on where Schar had been stamped on.On social media, one fan wrote: “That Duran red card audio is UNBELIEVABLE, genuinely what’s the point of VAR?? Tedious.”While another added: “Something is so wrong with this system”.A third fumed: “Absolutely shocking”.And a fourth posted: “Decides to send him off because of where Schar is holding. Laughable”.PGMOL chief Howard Webb was on hand during ‘Match Officials Mic’d Up’ to explain why the decision didn’t change and why Villa’s appeal wasn’t overturned.The retired referee explained that Taylor had the best view of the incident and so was best placed to make the decision on it being a red card, going on to add that there wasn’t enough evidence to prove his decision was incorrect to overturn it.He said: “You can hear on the comms a range of opinions. The fourth official makes a comment based on what he’s seen, the assistant referee suggests it might be a yellow card. “But the best placed match official by a long way is the referee, who is right behind the situation.”Adding:”It’s always hard to read players’ minds, you have to judge the actions that we see, the physical evidence to make our judgements. READ MORE SUN STORIES”And in this situation, the referee saw the action, felt it was a red card offence.”And the VAR saw the movement of that leg onto the back of Schar and didn’t feel that the on-field referee’s call was obviously wrong – he probably agreed with it – and it stayed as an on-field call as a red card.”Howard Webb has explained why the decision stood More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Michael Owen argues back as Howard Webb reveals VAR took SEVEN SECONDS to decide Brighton penalty vs Arsenal

      by

      VAR took just seven seconds to check Brighton’s controversial penalty against Arsenal.The Gunners dropped two points in the title race at the Amex last weekend after William Saliba was deemed to have made head contact with Joao Pedro when going for a header in the box.Howard Webb explained why Brighton were awarded a penaltyWilliam Saliba made contact on Joao Pedro using his headBoss Mikel Arteta was seething at full time, revealing he had never seen anything like that in his entire career and claimed the VAR official Darren England took just seconds to confirm Anthony Taylor’s decision.And the Spaniard was proven right, but PGMOL chief Howard Webb insists ref Taylor made the right call, despite replays showing Saliba’s head glancing the ball.In the released transcript, England can be heard saying during his check: “Clear. Clear penalty. Head on head.”And Webb explaned: “It’s unusual. Saliba doesn’t head it. Saliba has the ball flicked onto his head and then he goes into the head of Pedro. He gets there late on Pedro, who goes down.READ MORE ON ARSENAL“It’s a late contact by someone who hasn’t played the ball himself. The ball has touched him, but he’s not played it.“When you break it down in that way, it’s a foul.”If he heads the ball first at that loose ball and there’s a collision, I have no issue with that and then there’s a collision. That’s not what happened.”Discussing the incident with Webb, Michael Owen pushed back on TV show Match Officials Mic’d Up.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe said: “If he touches the ball it has to make a difference. If he doesn’t touch the ball it’s definitely a penalty.”He gets a fair chunk of the ball.”Arsenal Invincible and cult hero reveals we’ve all been saying his name wrong for nearly 45 yearsArsenal skipper Martin Odegaard said: “None of us have seen many penalties given for situations like that before.“There is a small contact on the head there, but William touches the ball too, so it’s a weird one.” More

    • 188 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Who is Arsenal vs Newcastle referee John Brooks and how will in-stadium VAR announcements work?

      by

      ARSENAL welcome Premier League rivals Newcastle United to the Emirates for the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final TONIGHT.The Gunners will be looking to go into February’s return leg in the North East with a healthy advantage.Arsenal and Newcastle go head-to-head in the Carabao Cup semi-finalCredit: GettyBut the Magpies arrive in the capital on a superb run of form after six straight wins in all competitions.Toon boss Eddie Howe will know the huge opportunity his side has to end Newcastle’s near 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy this season.Mikel Arteta will see the competition as an opportunity to add to his slim trophy cabinet from his Arsenal tenure.The Gunners have been one of the best teams in Europe under the Spaniard, but they have won just the 2020 FA Cup since he arrived in North London.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHistory will be made during tonight’s blockbuster Carabao Cup semi-final between Arsenal and Newcastle, with VAR trialling in-stadium announcements this evening.How will in-stadium VAR announcements work?VAR has not been in use for any Carabao Cup matches this season.However, it will feature in this week’s semi-finals – and for the first time in the English domestic game, in-stadium VAR announcements will be trialled.This means the crowd inside the stadium and fans watching at home on the TV will be able to hear referees announce final decisions after they have been advised to go to the pitchside monitor.Most read in FootballThat said, it will not be the case for decisions made not using the monitor.A referee announcing decisions to the crowd isn’t totally new to the world of football, as it was trialled at the Women’s World Cup in 2023.But it has never been in operation during an English football match until this week.A statement from the PGMOL, the referees’ body, said: “Referees will announce the final decision following a visit to the VAR pitchside monitor or upon the conclusion of factual matters, such as accidental handball by a goalscorer or offside offences where the attacker touches the ball.”The referee who will take charge of the historic match at the Emirates is John Brooks.Who is referee John Brooks?John Brooks will referee tonight’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg between Arsenal and Newcastle.Brooks is a football referee from the UK, who has risen up the ranks at a relatively young age.He was born in 1990, and is from Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire.Brooks began refereeing in 2004, and the majority of matches he has officiated in his career have been in the Championship.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe officiated his first Premier League game in December 2021, with Brooks in charge of Wolves vs Burnley at Molineux.He has been in charge of 54 top-flight games, with nine coming this season. More