Anthony Gordon’s goal was allowed to stand following a long VAR check (Picture: Getty)
Anthony Gordon scored a controversial goal in Newcastle United’s win over Arsenal on Saturday and it has been revealed why VAR allowed it to stand.
Gordon scrambled the ball over the line in the 64th minute at St James’ Park with VAR officials checking for three separate offences – if the ball went out of play in the build-up, if Joelinton fouled Gabriel Magalhaes and if Gordon himself was offside.
Following a long check which lasted over four minutes, the goal was allowed to stand, with the Gunners left absolutely furious after there was ‘no available angle to see the point of contact’ in relation to the possible offside against Gordon, according to Sky Sports.
‘It’s whether this goes out,’ Gary Neville said on commentary duties as Newcastle held on for a 1-0 victory. ‘It’s close. Very, very close. What’s not in doubt is the goal itself. David Raya makes a mess of it.
‘Gabriel is under pressure from Joelinton. That [ball going out of play decision] is tight. The curve of the ball… how can you even check that, I’m not sure? There’s definitely gap between the white line and the ball.
‘Gabriel is whinging about a push… I don’t think there is anything in that one. That’s not a free-kick for me. Gabriel has leaned down to try and flick it on.
‘I don’t think that is a foul. Gabriel is trying to head the ball and he misses it. That’s a natural jump from the ball [from Joelinton]. I’m not having that one at all.
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‘Offside check? Just let me know when they’re finished! I’m done. I’m finished! It might be offside now… there you go. Oh, I am not sure. I haven’t got a clue.
‘The VAR official at Stockley Park has asked for extra time [to make a decision]. Goal given. The VAR official says there was no evidence that was conclusive they could cancel the goal.’
Arsenal’s defeat means that their unbeaten start to the Premier League has come to an end and they remain in third behind Tottenham and Manchester City.
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A very controversial decision.