It seems officials in the Premier League are slowly but surely preparing for life with VAR.
Last season, we saw the first buds of the new video technology system implemented in the FA Cup, while we all saw it used effectively during the World Cup over the summer.
It’s now being used in the Bundesliga, Serie A and La Liga, and it’s inevitable that it will come to the Premier League very soon; possibly even next season.
In the meantime, it’s being secretly trialled by officials in certain games this season and was actually used during the five games played at 3pm on Saturday.
Of course, none of the video referees were actually in contact with match officials as it was only a trial, which is lucky as it seems only one decision made on the day would’ve been overturned using the video technology.
And no, it had nothing to do with the numerous decisions Craig Pawson had to make at the Vitality Stadium.
That’s right, it was actually for Leroy Sane’s goal that was ruled out for offside in Man City’s 3-0 win over Fulham.
According to the VAR, the goal should’ve stood as replays showed the winger was marginally onside when he slotted home just before halftime.
At the time, City were leading 2-0.
However, there was no word on the dubious penalty Bournemouth were awarded in the 4-2 win over Leicester.
Joshua King converted from the spot to put the Cherries 3-0 up before halftime after Ricardo Pereira’s handball in the box – a decision which angered plenty of fans in the away section.
Unfortunately, the VAR was not being trialled during yesterday’s early kick-off when Spurs hosted Liverpool.
Mauricio Pochettino lost the game 2-1 at Wembley, but could’ve been given a late penalty when Son Heung-Min went down in the box under a challenge from Sadio Mane.
Hmm, maybe next time, eh?
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