BREAKING PGMOL FINALLY release VAR audio for Newcastle’s controversial goal vs Arsenal [video] – Stating reasons why the goal should be cancelled and the points to be shared among Arsenal and Newcastle – with this Arsenal will Top the Table now
The PGMOL have shared the VAR audio from Newcastle and Arsenal’s match on the latest episode of ‘Mic’d Up’ with Howard Webb, after Anthony Gordon’s controversial goal was allowed to stand. And it makes for interesting listening.
The Magpies beat their Premier League rivals 1-0 thanks to Gordon’s second half winner, but there were three incidents that were reviewed by the team at Stockley Park in the build-up to the goal. Initially, there was confusion over whether the ball had gone out of play, with cameras inside St James’ Park not painting a clear picture. Then, there were questions over whether Joelinton had shoved fellow Brazilian Gabriel in the back while trying to win a header from the subsequent cross. And on top of that, there was confusion over whether Gordon was in an offside position.
After four minutes of checking for a possible offence, VAR ruled that there was no conclusive evidence which could overturn the goal. Outrage then followed, with Mikel Arteta providing one of the most extraordinary interviews after the game and calling the goal, “an absolute disgrace.” Arsenal legend Ian Wright also then voiced his fury on X, sharing an image which he believed clearly showed Joelinton fouling Gabriel in the build-up.
Webb believes VAR was right not to step in
Following the game, Arsenal released a statement which backed their manager’s fury, demanding that the PGMOL improve the standard of officiating in the English top flight. However, the Premier League’s independent panel eventually ruled that the decision reached by Stuart Attwell and VAR was the correct one, as there was not enough evidence to overturn the on-field decision.
PGMOL chief Webb has now weighed on the goal too, acknowledging the frustration that the winner produced. He believes that the debate that has raged since the events shows that VAR was right not to intervene.
VAR audio for Newcastle goal released
To provide further clarity over the situation, the PGMOL have now released the VAR audio of the incident. Webb and the organisation have been attempting to provide greater transparency over officiating this season, first releasing audio for Luis Diaz’s controversial disallowed goal for Liverpool against Tottenham back in October.
The PGMOL had given prior warning to Arsenal that the audio was set to be released, and it has now been made available to the public. Interestingly, following Diaz’s disallowed goal where there was confusion over the on-field decision, the VAR asks Attwell to confirm his on-field decision first to provide clarity.
The VAR then sets about checking for infringements. Initially, when the ball is approaching the goal line, the assistant referee can be heard shouting “ball in.” In the following replays, the assistant VAR then says there is no conclusive evidence that the ball had gone out of play, acknowledging the curvature of the ball
They then swiftly move to checking the potential foul, with the VAR official stating that while they see two hands on Gabriel, they don’t see a specific foul on the defender which warrants him flying forward – a decision which will no doubt infuriate Wright. Moving to the offside, they try to check the point of contact after realising the ball comes off Gabriel.
The sticking point is that there is no angle which shows the ball and Gordon’s position. The assistant VAR explains the situation, highlighting that the ball is hidden and because of that, there is no conclusive evidence of Gordon being ahead of the ball and therefore offside.
It really does make for an interesting listen, especially as the officials go through meticulously to make sure there’s no infringement at all. Check out the audio for yourselves below.
Despite the clarity over the situation now, it is unlikely that Arteta, Wright, or many Arsenal fans will feel content with the outcome of the game now. But despite all that, the Gunners are still in a title race, and enter the international break third in the league, just one point behind Manchester City.
The north London club have a London derby to look forward to when the Premier League returns, with a trip to Brentford next on the cards on Saturday 25th November. As Arsenal are reportedly interested in a move for Bees striker Ivan Toney, that game could be an opportunity to wow a potential January signing.
