VAR and the Premier League: A Deep Dive into Controversial Decisions

The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system continues to stir debates in the Premier League, with every weekend bringing new controversies. This week, we examine some of the most contentious decisions, including Brentford's late equalizer against Chelsea and other key moments.

Brentford 2-2 Chelsea: The Offside Debate

Incident: In the dying moments of the game, Brentford scored a dramatic equalizer through Fábio Carvalho. However, the goal was under scrutiny for a potential offside involving Dango Ouattara.

VAR Decision: The goal stood, as the VAR, James Bell, determined that Ouattara's actions did not constitute an offside offense.

Analysis: Ouattara was in an offside position when Kristoffer Ajer flicked the ball, but he did not touch it. The key question was whether his movement impacted Chelsea's Reece James. The on-field officials and the VAR concluded that there was no clear impact, allowing the goal to stand.

West Ham 0-3 Tottenham: A Soft Free Kick?

Incident: Tottenham's Cristian Romero scored from a corner, but the goal was disallowed after referee Jarred Gillett ruled that Micky van de Ven had fouled Kyle Walker-Peters.

VAR Decision: The goal was disallowed, with the VAR, John Brooks, upholding the on-field decision.

Analysis: The decision was contentious, with many arguing that the foul was soft. However, the VAR supported the referee's call, highlighting the subjective nature of such decisions.

Newcastle 1-0 Wolves: A Potential Red Card

Incident: Yerson Mosquera's challenge on Harvey Barnes was reviewed for a potential red card for denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity (DOGSO).

VAR Decision: No red card was issued, as the VAR, Tim Wood, deemed the challenge not severe enough.

Analysis: The decision sparked debate, with some believing that Mosquera's arm contact with Barnes warranted a red card. However, the VAR concluded that it was a normal jostle for the ball.

Burnley 0-1 Liverpool: Handball Penalty

Incident: Liverpool were awarded a penalty in stoppage time when Hannibal Mejbri blocked a cross with his arm.

VAR Decision: The penalty stood, and Mohamed Salah converted it to secure the win.

Analysis: The decision was straightforward, as Hannibal's arm clearly blocked the ball, making it an obvious penalty.

Conclusion

These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges with VAR in the Premier League. While the system aims to ensure fairness, the subjective nature of many decisions continues to spark debates among fans, players, and pundits alike.