The big decisions analysed by Ref Watch between the Premier League match of Arsenal and Newcastle. Newcastle United’s clashes with Arsenal have often been eventful, passionate. Moreover, they have both very recently had controversy surrounding a referee’s decision. A recent confrontation involving the two teams fierce enough to attract significant attention and prompted further analysis and discussion from Referring Watch and the Premier LeaguesKey Match Incidents Panel. Various incidents in the fixture raised issues over the usage of VAR, standards of officiating and consistency.
The Controversial Gordon Goal
The moment that generated the most discussion came when Anthony Gordon scored what would later be the winning goal for Newcastle United. Arsenal believed the goal should have been disallowed for the following three reasons. The ball going out of play at some stage of the Newcastle attack, a foul/handball committed by Joelinton on Gabriel, and a possible offside in the lead up to the goal.
Despite a lengthy VAR review, the goal stood. According to Ref Watch, the officials could not find conclusive evidence in any of the three areas to overturn the decision. However, Dermot Gallagher, speaking on Sky Sports, admitted he believed the push by Joelinton warranted a foul.
Havertz’s Challenge on Longstaff
Another flashpoint came when Kai Havertz lunged into a tackle on Sean Longstaff. The German got a yellow card, but many felt it was worthy of red. The Ref Watch panel later agreed that the challenge was dangerous and met the criteria for serious foul play. Gunners may have got lucky on that call.
Guimarães Escapes Red for Elbow
Bruno Guimarães found himself embroiled in dissatisfaction after appearing to hit Jorginho on the head with his forearm. Nothing was done at the time, however, Ref Watch ruled it was violent conduct. The panel’s narrow majority believed was a red card.
Ref Watch Verdict and Reactions
Ultimately, Ref Watch backed most of the original decisions on the field, citing the lack of clear and obvious evidence required to overturn calls via VAR. However, they were critical of the failure to spot red card offences involving both Havertz and Guimarães.
The Author’s Opinion
This match between Newcastle and Arsenal is a case in point that encapsulates the VAR and refereeing debates that persist in the Premier League. Technology must help to reduce erroneous decision making, but the interpretation is still significant. Each time we get a marginal offside, or borderline foul, we are once again back to the divide which swirls around some of the key decisions from the key moments from key matches.
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