https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CS3W61MH
HomeFootballVAR in Premier League: Success or Failure?

VAR in Premier League: Success or Failure?

Date:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CS3W61MH

But the organisation is adamant that the overall situation is improving and that the noise generated by certain decisions is obscuring the reality.

Every Premier League weekend seems to bring more controversy around the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, with players, pundits and managers questioning or strongly criticizing its use. Brighton alone have received three apologies from refereeing body PGMOL for wrong decisions, the most recent being an admission that Roberto de Zerbi’s side should have been awarded a penalty in a 2-1 defeat by Tottenham. Meanwhile, referee Lee Mason left the PGMOL in February after failing to draw VAR’s offside lines and rule out a Brentford goal against Arsenal. PGMOL knows not everything is perfect and referees’ chief Howard Webb has, on a handful of occasions, had to contact clubs to acknowledge errors have been made. However, there is a feeling within PGMOL that the noise generated by certain decisions is obscuring the reality of an improving situation.

PGMOL does not feel the overall situation is as bad as the one being portrayed and it was keen for figures showing improvement in VAR decisions since the World Cup to be made public. A review of incidents by the independent five-person Key Match Incidents Panel, following the restart after the Qatar finals, suggests fewer errors than first thought. 12 errors have been identified since the World Cup in the 150 games played – not including the last matchweek of fixtures – and down from 18 in the first 16 matchweeks. Four of these were incorrect VAR interventions, seven were missed interventions and one related to a referee being told to check his decision on the pitchside monitor, then sticking with it when it should have been changed. It means incorrect interventions have reduced to one every 37.5 games, as opposed to six in the 16 rounds before the World Cup, when the rate was one in every 24.3 games. For missed interventions, the rate has gone from one in every 12.2 games to one every 21.4 games.

Match of the Day pundits have been critical of VAR at various points this season, with Ian Wright saying “the pure enjoyment of goals has gone” and Danny Murphy calling it a “complete incompetence” after the Brighton incidents this month. Stephen Warnock even suggested getting rid of VAR, while BBC Radio 5 Live’s Chris Sutton said De Zerbi’s side had been “robbed” in the loss at Tottenham. Two key controversies have been Tottenham 2-1 Brighton (8 April 2023) and Arsenal 1-1 Brentford (11 February 2023). In both cases, PGMOL later admitted wrong decisions had been made and VAR officials were dropped for the next round of Premier League fixtures. Crystal Palace 1-1 Brighton (11 February 2023) was another incident where PGMOL was forced to admit an error had been made.

Do officials deserve strong criticism? While many will disagree with the numbers, it is understood Webb feels it is important to shield officials from some of the anger being aimed at them. Unlike clubs and players, they receive little credit to counterbalance criticism when they have done well. Webb also knows the spotlight on officials will increase over the final weeks of the season as the consequences of results and decisions becomes more acute. Over the course of the summer, PGMOL intends to introduce a pool of VAR specialists, with former Premier League assistant referee Adam Gale-Watts confirmed as the organisation’s first technical director. Premier League VAR chief Neil Swarbrick, who spearheaded the system’s implementation in the top flight, is also to leave his role at the end of the season.

Premier League clubs will get a response every time they ask PGMOL for an explanation around a contentious decision. But they should forget about weekly apologies from Webb for debatable calls that have gone against them. Webb contacted Brighton in the aftermath of their controversial defeat at Tottenham on 8 April to apologise. Since then, Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper has claimed he would expect a similar call from Webb to apologise for his side not being awarded a spot-kick for an apparent handball by Manchester United skipper Harry Maguire in his side’s 2-0 defeat at the City Ground. He might be waiting a while. While Webb has made a point of proactively speaking to clubs when he knows a clear error has been made, BBC Sport understands that has only happened on a handful of occasions as many of the decisions, which managers are unhappy about, are debatable. The Maguire incident is thought to be one of those. In that instance, Webb would respond only if there was a request for dialogue from Forest to explain the rationale behind the decision.

The Mitoma and Maguire controversies come at a difficult time for PGMOL, when the quality of officials is under intense scrutiny. But the organisation is adamant that the overall situation is improving and that the noise generated by certain decisions is obscuring the reality.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CS3W61MH
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CS3W61MH

Related articles:

Alisson Injury Delivers Major Setback to Liverpool before Brentford Match

Discover how Alisson Becker's fresh muscle injury is a major setback for Liverpool ahead of their clash with Brentford. With key players already sidelined, including Trent Alexander-Arnold and Thiago Alcantara, Liverpool's depth will be tested. Find out how this injury impacts Liverpool's Premier League campaign and upcoming fixtures against Manchester City and Chelsea. Despite the setback, Liverpool remains determined to push forward in their pursuit of glory under the guidance of manager Jurgen Klopp.

Ex-Arsenal and Chelsea target considers Premier League transfer

Could Arsenal and Chelsea renew their interest in the forward?

Alisson sidelined for Brentford clash due to injury

Get the latest update on Liverpool's goalkeeper Alisson Becker, who will be sidelined for their match against Brentford due to a hamstring injury. Find out how this setback will affect Liverpool's lineup and their upcoming schedule. Read more here.

LFC News: Latest on Szoboszlai, Anfield Art, and Salah’s PSG Link

Get the latest Liverpool FC news, including updates on Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dominik Szoboszlai's injuries. Jurgen Klopp assures fans that no player is being rushed back and emphasizes player well-being. Anfield gets a colorful makeover with new artwork inspired by the club's history. Klopp and Diogo Jota receive accolades for their contributions. Rumors circulate about Mo Salah potentially joining PSG. Stay updated on Liverpool's success on and off the field.

Manchester United prospects train with first team ahead of Luton clash

Get the latest update on Manchester United's preparations for their Premier League clash against Luton Town. Manager Erik ten Hag has given three promising young players the opportunity to train with the first team, showcasing the club's commitment to nurturing talent. Although it's unlikely they will feature in the upcoming match due to key players returning from injury, their involvement bodes well for the future. Read more to stay informed about Manchester United's squad and their quest to extend their winning streak.

Latest News:

Mikel Arteta’s Reaction to Norwich’s Interest in Arsenal Assistant Manager

Discover Mikel Arteta's stance on Carlos Cuesta's potential departure from Arsenal. Arteta fully supports his assistant's decision to pursue a managerial position elsewhere, highlighting his commitment to staff development. Learn more about Cuesta's potential move to Norwich City and the positive impact he has had on Arteta and Arsenal. Explore Arteta's belief in providing opportunities for growth and how his own journey from assistant to manager informs his approach.

ECU’s Byrd Makes History as First DI Player with Prosthetic Leg

Witness history in college sports as Parker Byrd, a sophomore infielder and right-handed pitcher at East Carolina University, becomes the first Division I player to compete with a prosthetic leg. After overcoming a tragic boating accident and undergoing 22 surgeries in just 45 days, Byrd's inspiring comeback to the field is a testament to resilience and determination. Experience the emotional moment of his collegiate debut and discover how Byrd's story serves as an inspiration for athletes and individuals alike. Don't miss this remarkable achievement that sets a new precedent in the world of college athletics.

Klopp: Elliott’s career won’t be limited to super-sub role

Discover how Liverpool's young midfielder, Harvey Elliott, is more than just a super-sub. Jurgen Klopp praises Elliott's exceptional performances and emphasizes his immense potential. Despite his limited starts, Elliott's continuous development and dedication indicate that he can become a key player for Liverpool. Find out how Klopp's guidance and Elliott's bright future can leave a lasting impact on the club's history.

“Manchester City’s Crucial Advancement in WSL Title Battle”

Discover Manchester City's crucial advancement in the Women's Super League (WSL) title race as they strive to secure their first league championship in eight years. Manager Gareth Taylor expresses his satisfaction with the players' performance and highlights their newfound defensive resilience. With a shift in mentality and a strong defensive record, City's title chances are looking promising. Meanwhile, Chelsea remains optimistic despite suffering a rare defeat. Get all the details and insights on the exciting climax to the WSL title battle.