Premier League VAR did not officiate matches over the weekend
The use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in the Premier League was called into question this weekend after a controversial incident involving Nathan Ake’s goal. Despite the goal being disallowed, VAR did not intervene to review the decision.
During the match between Manchester City and Bournemouth on Saturday, Ake scored what appeared to be a legitimate goal in the 42nd minute. However, the goal was ruled out by the on-field referee, Anthony Taylor, who deemed that there was a foul committed by City’s David Silva in the build-up to the goal.
Replays of the incident showed minimal contact between Silva and Bournemouth’s Jefferson Lerma, leading to widespread criticism of the referee’s decision. Many argued that VAR should have been used to review the incident and potentially overturn the ruling.
VAR, which was introduced in the Premier League this season, is meant to assist referees in making accurate decisions by reviewing incidents on video footage. However, it is ultimately up to the on-field referee to decide whether or not to consult VAR.
The incident involving Ake’s disallowed goal has reignited the debate surrounding the use of VAR in the Premier League. Critics argue that VAR should have intervened in this case to ensure fairness and accuracy in the decision-making process.
Despite the controversy, the Premier League has stood by the decision not to use VAR in this particular incident. They maintain that it is the referee’s prerogative to make decisions on the field and that VAR should only be used in clear and obvious errors.
This incident serves as a reminder that the implementation of VAR in football is still a work in progress. The technology has undoubtedly brought about positive changes in decision-making, but there are still instances where its use and effectiveness are questioned.
It remains to be seen how the Premier League will address the concerns raised by this incident and whether any changes will be made to the use of VAR in future matches.
Resource link: [Click here for more information on the use of VAR in football](https://www.fifa.com/who-we-are/news/var-the-story-so-far-2938528)
