Jarred Gillett overturned a penalty against Newcastle United in the first half on Sunday, and PGMOL chief Howard Webb has defended his judgment. Against Arsenal, Nick Pope’s tackle of Viktor Gyokeres caused a collective gasp to reverberate throughout St. James’ Park.
For preventing a goal-scoring opportunity, the Toon goalie would have most likely received a red card if the penalty had remained. The Arsenal players were shocked when the referee overturned his decision after a protracted VAR review. His blushes were spared since Pope was deemed to have touched the ball.
More VAR controversy in the second half spoiled an exciting game. Gabriel, who scored the game-winning goal in stoppage time, was certain that Newcastle should have sent him out for yelling at Nick Woltemade.
Gabriel’s arm was struck inside the area by Anthony Elanga’s cross in the closing seconds, but the referee denied the penalty claims. The ball barely touched the Brazilian’s leg before hitting his outstretched arm, according to replays.
Howard Webb responds to Arsenal complaints after VAR controversy
Howard Webb, PGMOL’s chief refereeing officer, said the decision to overturn Arsenal’s penalty against Newcastle United was correct. However, after reviewing VAR, Premier League referee Jarred Gillet altered his mind, determining Pope had touched enough of the ball to justify the decision being reversed.
“I believe the deviation is fairly evident. Gyökeres’ contact will be seen first, followed by Pope’s right leg. It touches the ball and moves it away in a different direction than it was previously heading.
Arteta was outraged by the decision to modify the on-field call, telling the press after the game: “I watched it live and then on the screen, and for me it was a penalty. “We were told quite clearly again this season that unless there is a blatant and evident error, VAR will not act. It is not, in my opinion.
“Thank God, we discovered a means to win the game. The crew is still emotionally calm and composed, which is a lesson we learned a few years ago.
