**The Controversy of Video Assistant Referees: A Week in Review**
Every week, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system sparks controversy in the Premier League, leaving fans and players alike questioning the decisions made on the pitch. In this weekly review, we delve into the major incidents, examining the process behind VAR protocol and the Laws of the Game.
**Manchester United vs. Tottenham Hotspur: A Red Card Conundrum**
In the 42nd minute, Bruno Fernandes was sent off by referee Chris Kavanagh for a challenge on James Maddison. Although the VAR, Peter Bankes, upheld the decision, it’s arguable that the red card should have been rescinded. Fernandes’ boot made glancing contact with Maddison’s leg, but the force was minimal, and the tackle didn’t lead with studs. The high bar for intervention often leads the VAR to support the on-field decision, even when evidence suggests a mistake.
**Newcastle United vs. Manchester City: A Penalty Puzzle**
In the 56th minute, Anthony Gordon was brought down by Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson, resulting in a penalty. While there was contact between Ederson’s glove and Gordon’s boot, the VAR, Stuart Attwell, correctly decided not to intervene. However, a similar challenge by Kyle Walker on Joelinton went unpunished, highlighting the inconsistencies in VAR decisions.
**Arsenal vs. Leicester City: A Foul Before a Goal**
Leicester City protested when Jamie Vardy was pulled back by William Saliba in the centre circle, leading to Arsenal’s opening goal. Although the VAR, Paul Tierney, didn’t intervene, it’s debatable whether a foul should have been awarded.
**Brentford vs. West Ham United: An Offside Conundrum**
Bryan Mbeumo’s goal was allowed to stand despite an offside check against Kevin Schade. When semi-automated offside technology is introduced, such goals might be disallowed due to the “benefit of the doubt” principle.
**Chelsea vs. Brighton & Hove Albion: A Soft Penalty**
Jadon Sancho was awarded a penalty after being sandwiched between Georginio Rutter and Pervis Estupiñán. While the VAR, Peter Bankes, upheld the decision, it looked soft on initial viewing. The high bar for intervention often leads to inconsistent decisions.
**Everton vs. Crystal Palace: A Borderline Call**
James Tarkowski’s challenge on Jean-Philippe Mateta was deemed not worthy of a penalty. Although Tarkowski won the ball, the VAR, Graham Scott, must have considered it a borderline call.
**Nottingham Forest vs. Fulham: Inconsistent Decisions**
Andreas Pereira was awarded a penalty after being fouled by Murillo. However, a similar challenge by Calvin Bassey on Anthony Elanga went unpunished, raising questions about consistency within the same game.
**Wolverhampton Wanderers vs. Liverpool: Grappling Inside the Box**
Nélson Semedo’s foul on Diogo Jota resulted in a penalty. The VAR, Anthony Taylor, correctly upheld the decision, as grappling inside the box often leads to inconsistent application.
The Premier League’s VAR system continues to spark debate, with inconsistencies and controversies arising every week. As the season progresses, it’s essential to examine the decisions made and strive for improvement.
Leave a Reply