Newcastle, England – The Sunday Premier League clash between Arsenal and Newcastle United didn’t just serve up goals and tackles; it dished out some serious VAR drama too! Arsenal fans were already dreaming of an early lead after referee Jarred Gillett pointed to the penalty spot following a mishap involving Newcastle’s Nick Pope and Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres. But, just like that one friend who always messes up your plans, VAR had other ideas.
Initially, Gillett said ‘yes, oya take your penalty!’ when Gyokeres was knocked down by Pope in the box, but then he went to check the on-field monitor. After several minutes of nail-biting tension (some fans probably thought it was ‘Nollywood’ sequel coming), he overturned his decision. Gillett explained that Pope had actually touched the ball before clattering into Gyokeres, so it was a drop ball instead – talk about a twist! (You fit imagine the Gunners’ face when they hear this, right?)
Gary Neville, the Sky Sports pundit, added to the drama saying he was vexed as well but wasn’t sure if it was a penalty. ‘Pope came out aggressive, Gyokeres was right there, it looked like a classic penalty scene,’ he mused. But after dissecting the footage, he was left confused, admitting, ‘I’m a little torn.’
On BBC Radio 5 Live, former goalie Joe Hart defended the VAR decision. He cheekily said, ‘If Pope touches the ball, then it’s not a penalty – and he does touch it before he hits Gyokeres.’ (But honestly, we were just waiting for Joe to give us a joke or two!).
After that juicy incident, Arsenal, who started the game looking like a hungry lion, nearly redeemed themselves ten minutes later. The dazzling Leandro Trossard got a sweet pass from Declan Rice, only to see his thunderous shot rattle against the post. Just like the penalty claim, chance after chance was slipping through their fingers.
Fans can’t be blamed for getting emotional. The first half was barely over, yet it felt like a lifetime of swerving joy and heartbreak! Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was visibly fuming, likely thinking, ‘who sent this VAR guy?’
As the game continued, Arsenal kept pushing and pushing, channeling all their energy towards scoring, but alas! It wasn’t enough. Newcastle’s defense, like a stubborn goat, held strong. The match was proof that sometimes, no matter how much effort you put in, the football gods just don’t want you to win. Arsenal fans might just need to pop some palm wine and chill after this.
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