PGMOL chief Howard Webb has explained how VAR prevented a clear and obvious error after Michael Oliver failed to award a penalty for Declan Rice’s kick on Ben Davies in the North London derby.
Results for: VAR
Brighton and Hove Albion were left livid after a potential penalty was waved away in their Premier League encounter with Manchester City. Despite VAR review, the on-field decision was upheld, much to the chagrin of the Seagulls. The incident occurred in the second half when Joao Pedro made a surge into the box and was seemingly clipped by Josko Gvardiol. Referee Jarred Gillett dismissed the home side’s pleas for a spot-kick, a decision that was backed up by VAR. Commentators suggested Pedro may have gone down too easily, but VAR’s limitations prevented them from recommending a yellow card for simulation.
Nottingham Forest will engage in discussions with Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) Chief Howard Webb this week, where they will review the controversial VAR decisions made during their defeat to Everton. Forest was incensed by the officiating of referee Anthony Taylor and VAR official Stuart Atwell, particularly with regard to three penalty appeals involving Ashley Young. According to the Daily Mail, PGMOL protocol allows clubs to request access to VAR audio, and Webb will present the recordings to Forest officials ahead of Sunday’s match against Manchester City. The meeting will be attended by Evangelos Marinakis or Sokratis Kominakis, who represent Forest’s ownership group. Forest has drawn criticism for their statement following the Everton loss, in which they questioned the appointment of Atwell, who supports Luton Town, implying that PGMOL could have avoided the situation. Despite Forest’s request, PGMOL has declined to make the VAR audio public, but one of the decisions is expected to be featured in the upcoming ‘Match Officials: Mic’d Up’ program. Forest may face consequences from the Football Association due to comments made by Nuno Espirito Santo, Neco Williams, and the club’s refereeing consultant, Mark Clattenburg, which appeared to question Atwell’s integrity.
Everton’s 2-0 win over Liverpool in the Merseyside derby could have been even more controversial, with Jarrad Branthwaite’s opening goal potentially being disallowed under new Premier League rules set to be introduced next season. According to ESPN, Branthwaite’s goal may have been chalked off if semi-automated offside technology had been in use. The technology, which was used during the 2022 World Cup, aims to speed up the decision-making process and be more accurate. In the current system, there is a ‘tolerance level’ for offside decisions, but the new technology will not have this tolerance level, meaning goals like Branthwaite’s may be disallowed more often.
Wolves manager Gary O’Neil has refrained from criticizing referee Stuart Attwell, despite the official’s involvement in another contentious incident during Bournemouth’s 1-0 victory at Molineux. Attwell’s recent decision to disallow a Hwang Hee-chan goal after consultation with VAR has drawn criticism, following a similar incident involving Nottingham Forest. However, O’Neil has expressed sympathy for the referee and declined to comment on the decision, stating that his focus is on his team’s performance. Despite the controversial incidents, O’Neil has maintained his support for Attwell’s appointment to the game and emphasized the need for referees to make the correct decisions.
Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite scored the opening goal in their 2-0 win over Liverpool in the Merseyside derby, but the goal might not have been allowed next season due to a new ‘zero tolerance’ offside rule. The new technology will use semi-automated technology to help speed up the decision-making process on close offsides. Branthwaite was played fractions onside by Liverpool defender Ibrahim Konate, but the goal was given as his run fell ‘within the tolerance level of the current offside technology’. However, the ruling will change next season to have zero tolerance on decisions, meaning that Branthwaite’s goal might have been disallowed if it had been scored next season.
Bournemouth’s impressive 1-0 triumph against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux has propelled them into the top half of the Premier League standings with just four matches remaining this season. Antoine Semenyo’s first-half strike proved to be the decisive moment, while VAR interventions played a significant role in denying Wolves a potential equalizer.
Stuart Attwell, the VAR official involved in the Nottingham Forest controversy, has drawn more criticism after disallowing a Wolves goal against Bournemouth. Despite Wolves’ dominance, they fell behind to an Antoine Semenyo strike. However, their hopes of a comeback were dashed when Attwell ruled out a header from Hwang Hee-chan after a lengthy VAR check. This decision incensed the Molineux crowd, who have faced numerous unfavorable decisions this season. The incident sparked another outburst of rage, similar to the one from Nottingham Forest, who accused Attwell of bias due to his support for Luton Town. The FA is investigating Forest’s comments, and the Premier League has expressed disappointment. Meanwhile, Bournemouth were also frustrated by Attwell’s decision to red card Milos Kerkez for a challenge on Matt Doherty.
Ollie Watkins’ exceptional performance against Arsenal has forced me to retract my previous skepticism. His undeniable talent and unwavering commitment propelled Aston Villa to a remarkable 2-0 victory, showcasing his exceptional ability and deserving accolades. I wholeheartedly believe he merits inclusion in England’s Euros squad, alongside Ivan Toney. Watkins’ journey from Exeter to the Premier League is a testament to English football’s ability to nurture rising stars. Moreover, the current state of English football is concerning, marked by the emergence of chaos and instability. Issues such as Financial Fair Play, VAR controversies, refereeing standards, FA Cup format changes, and the imminent arrival of an independent regulator are creating a sense of disarray. This chaos stems from poorly conceived decisions lacking strategic thinking. Such challenges demand not only big ideas but also visionary leaders capable of tackling them effectively. The FA’s abdication of its regulatory responsibilities has further compounded the situation. This void has paved the way for legal professionals to exploit opportunities at the expense of clubs. Additionally, the economic model of football has shifted, requiring a re-evaluation of the impact of Financial Fair Play regulations. This focus on economic asphyxiation may stifle investment and hinder the growth of the game. Other pressing concerns include refereeing controversies involving VAR, the redistribution of revenue, the introduction of an independent regulator, and the discontinuation of FA Cup replays. It is paramount for football to embark on a path of self-correction, embracing strategic thinking, enhanced communication, and visionary leadership. The game must prioritize entertainment, sporting excellence, and meritocracy, rather than becoming preoccupied with financial and legal matters. Despite the current challenges, I remain optimistic about the future of English football. With proper leadership and innovative solutions, the game can emerge from this period of turbulence and rediscover its vitality and global dominance.
Arsenal’s title chase serves as a reminder that success often comes through trials and growth. While missing out on the title can be disappointing, it’s part of a necessary progression. Nottingham Forest’s VAR complaint highlights the pressure teams face and the efforts made to advocate for fair officiating. Technology like VAR has its flaws but remains a valuable tool in enhancing game fairness, as evidenced by its continued use despite occasional errors. The situation at Manchester United reflects the need for stability and a clear plan, which manager Erik ten Hag has yet to establish. Fans and critics will be watching closely as the club undergoes significant changes in the coming weeks.