The role of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in Premier League matches has come under scrutiny once again following several controversial decisions that directly impacted match outcomes. Key incidents from matches involving Nottingham Forest vs. Manchester United, Chelsea vs. Tottenham Hotspur, and West Ham United vs. Newcastle United have reignited discussions about the effectiveness and transparency of VAR protocols.
Nottingham Forest vs. Manchester United
In the match held on September 30, 2023, Nottingham Forest faced Manchester United, resulting in a 2-2 draw that included a contentious corner kick decision. The incident occurred in the 33rd minute when Forest defender Nicolò Savona headed the ball away from a cross by Bryan Mbeumo. As the ball approached the corner flag, it appeared to have gone out of play. However, assistant referee Akil Howson awarded a corner kick to Manchester United, a call that drew ire from Forest players and fans alike.
The subsequent corner led to a goal by United’s Casemiro, intensifying the frustration among the Forest supporters. According to Law 9 of the game, a ball is out of play when it has wholly crossed the goal line or touchline. Video analysis later confirmed that the ball was still in play at the time of the decision. The assistant referee’s view was hindered by players and goalposts, raising questions about the correctness of his call. Unfortunately for Forest, VAR protocols do not currently allow for reviews of incorrectly awarded corners that lead to goals, leaving manager Sean Dyche and his team without recourse.
Chelsea vs. Tottenham Hotspur
Another match with VAR implications occurred on September 30, 2023, when Chelsea faced Tottenham Hotspur. In the 45th minute, Chelsea’s right-back Reece James was challenged by Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur. Referee Jarred Gillett initially awarded a free kick and cautioned Bentancur for what was deemed a reckless challenge.
Upon reviewing the incident, VAR official Craig Pawson determined that the challenge did not meet the threshold for Serious Foul Play (SFP), which would warrant a red card. Despite the force of the challenge, the contact was considered low and not sufficient for a harsher penalty. The decision sparked debate, with many believing that the challenge could be classified as reckless, though Pawson’s assessment was ultimately upheld.
West Ham United vs. Newcastle United
In a separate encounter on September 30, 2023, West Ham United secured a 3-1 victory against Newcastle United. A pivotal moment arose in the 11th minute when West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen was awarded a penalty after being challenged by Newcastle defender Malick Thiaw. Referee Rob Jones initially pointed to the spot, believing a foul had occurred.
Following a review, VAR official Paul Howard recommended an on-field review. After consulting the pitch-side monitor, Jones reversed his decision, concluding that Thiaw had played the ball during the challenge. This intervention highlighted the importance of accurate communication and decision-making in high-stakes matches. Although the review took over four minutes, it ultimately led to a correct outcome, aligning with recent trends in the Premier League regarding penalty decisions.
The series of incidents from these matches illustrates the ongoing challenge of ensuring that VAR decisions enhance the integrity of the game. While the technology aims to provide clarity, the subjective nature of certain calls continues to provoke debate among players, officials, and fans alike. As the season progresses, the scrutiny of VAR protocols is likely to remain a hot topic in football discussions.
