Analysis of Video Assistant Referee in the Premier League
Controversy surrounding decisions made through the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system in the Premier League is a topic that stirs up debate week after week. How are these decisions made and are they truly correct?
Decoding VAR in the Premier League
After every weekend of matches, a thorough examination of significant incidents is carried out to shed light on the process of VAR protocol and the application of the Laws of the Game.
Major Incidents:
In the recent weekend fixtures, Liverpool and Arsenal found themselves at the center of contentious penalty decisions. Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott earned a penalty against Manchester United after contact from Aaron Wan-Bissaka, with Mohamed Salah converting the spot-kick. On the other hand, Wolverhampton Wanderers had a late equalizer disallowed for offside against West Ham United.
Possible Penalty Overturn: Wan-Bissaka Challenge on Elliott
Harvey Elliott’s penalty incident saw Wan-Bissaka making contact without winning the ball. The VAR upheld the penalty decision, emphasizing that Elliott was not obliged to avoid the defender’s leg.
Possible Offside: Chirewa on Kilman Goal
Wolves had a goal disallowed due to a perceived offside. The contentious decision drew criticism from Wolves manager Gary O’Neil, emphasizing the impact of a player standing in front of the goalkeeper on the decision-making process.
Possible Penalty Overturn: Emerson Challenge on Aït-Nouri
Another penalty incident involving Wolves sparked debates, with Emerson’s challenge on Aït-Nouri resulting in a spot-kick. The VAR reviewed the incident and confirmed the penalty decision.
These incidents highlight the intricate nature of VAR decisions in the Premier League, with each case offering unique insights into the application of the technology and the interpretation of key match incidents.
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