VAR Review: Key Decisions in Premier League Matches

Video Assistant Referee (VAR) continues to be a hot topic in the Premier League, with every weekend bringing new controversies. This week, we delve into some of the most contentious decisions and analyze whether they were correct according to VAR protocol and the Laws of the Game.

Newcastle 2-0 Chelsea: Red Card for Nicolas Jackson

In the 33rd minute, Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson challenged Newcastle's Sven Botman, leading to a collision. Initially, the referee issued a yellow card, but VAR intervened and upgraded it to a red card. Jackson's elbow made contact with Botman's head, deemed as violent conduct.

VAR Decision: Red card for Nicolas Jackson.

Analysis: Jackson's challenge was considered excessive force, justifying the red card. This decision contrasts with Aston Villa's Tyrone Mings, who escaped a red card for a similar incident. Mings' action was seen as a normal footballing move, lacking the intent and force seen in Jackson's challenge.

Fulham 1-3 Everton: Handball by Mykolenko

In added time, Fulham's Adama Traoré attempted a cross blocked by Everton's Vitaliy Mykolenko. The referee awarded a corner, but VAR reviewed it for a possible handball penalty.

VAR Decision: No penalty awarded.

Analysis: Mykolenko's arm was close to his body, making the handball unintentional. This decision aligns with the Premier League's strict criteria for handball penalties.

Ipswich 0-1 Brentford: Penalty Claims

Brentford had multiple penalty claims during their match against Ipswich. The most notable was a challenge by Jacob Greaves on Sepp van den Berg during a corner.

VAR Decision: No penalty awarded.

Analysis: The foul occurred before the ball was in play, making a penalty impossible. However, Greaves' challenge was reckless and could have warranted a booking.

Wolves 0-2 Brighton: Offside Overturn

Brighton's Danny Welbeck scored, but the goal was disallowed due to an offside call against Yankuba Minteh.

VAR Decision: No goal.

Analysis: Minteh's offside position and his attempt to play the ball impacted the goalkeeper, justifying the decision.

Conclusion

VAR decisions often spark debates, but each incident is unique and must be judged on its own merits. While some decisions may seem inconsistent, they are typically grounded in the specific circumstances of each play. As VAR technology evolves, the Premier League continues to refine its application to ensure fairness and accuracy in football matches.