The Premier League have confirmed that VAR made incorrect decisions in all three games played last night.
Manchester United were awarded a penalty against Aston Villa and Dean Smith was left furious with the decision. Fernandes caught Ezri Konsa’s leg in the box, and VAR gave him a penalty. However, the Premier League has claimed that it was Konsa who was fouled.
In the Tottenham – Bournemouth game, Josh King pushed Kane in the back as he defended a cross. However, the Londoners were not awarded a penalty despite VAR monitoring the incident. Jose Mourinho later slammed the officials for their decision.
In the other game, Southampton were awarded a penalty against Everton, and the decision should not have stood either.
It will be interesting to see how the Premier League deals with these crucial mistakes going forward.
Some of the pundits and managers have been vocal about VAR’s downside in the past, and it remains to be seen if the technology is used next season.
Furthermore, the officials need better training and understanding of the laws as well. Moreover, the lack of pitchside monitors in the Premier League went against general guidance.
Next season FIFA is expected to provide clarifications on the rules regarding handball, offside and goalkeepers standing on their lines for penalty kicks.
