📺 The VAR story: 12 weeks in and English football cannot cope | OneFootball

It’s no secret that more fans watch Premier League football than any other league in the world.

They were late to the VAR party but finally, after lengthy discussions it was introduced for the 2019/20 season.

Former Southampton striker Charlie Austin was even on record saying how the referees needed ‘as much help as they could get’, after seeing his goal against Watford ruled out.

So, Charlie. You got your wish and here’s how VAR has taken to life in English football …

📆 August 25, 2019

Jefferson Lerma fouling David Silva (no penalty)

Silva was clearly stepped on by Lerma during Manchester City’s 3-1 win over Bournemouth in August.

Despite a VAR referral from Andre Marriner – no penalty was given.

📆 August 31, 2019

Youri Tielemans fouling Callum Wilson (no red card)

Whilst attempting to shield the ball, Tielemans caught Wilson flush on the ankle after going way over the ball.

It could’ve resulted in serious injury but again, after VAR referral, the original yellow card decision stood.

📆 September 21, 2019

Heung-min Son offside against Leicester (goal ruled out)

Heung-min Son scored to put Tottenham 2-0 ahead against Leicester, only for it to be ruled out.

VAR considered the South Korean offside. Spurs went on to lose the game 2-1.

📆 October 28, 2019

Sokratis goal against Crystal Palace (goal ruled out)

In the lead up to Sokratis putting Arsenal 3-2 up against Crystal Palace, this was deemed a ‘foul’ by Calum Chambers.

The goal was ruled out after a lengthy VAR review – despite replays showing Chambers being fouled by two Palace defenders.

📆 November 4, 2019

Roberto Firmino goal against Aston Villa (goal ruled out)

Roberto Firmino believed he levelled the score against Aston Villa, before another VAR referral was called.

In the images provided, the Brazilian looks level. The Premier League later described his ‘armpit’ as being offside.

📆 November 9, 2019

David McGoldrick goal against Tottenham (goal ruled out)

Sheffield United thought they’d equalised against Tottenham, only for the goal to be chalked off upon review.

John Lundstram – who again looked level with Eric Dier – was judged offside by his fingertips.

Is it too late to go back?

The technology itself should be under scrutiny, but ultimately, referees and officials who operate said technology should be made culpable.

Communication needs to improve and clubs need to share their input, because match-going fans are being isolated and the experience of watching football is being ruined.