The Premier League never failed to produce dramas, and the clash with Arsenal’s Newcastle United was no exception.
In the first half, packed with strength, two major referee decisions were centered around, with Arsenal players and fans smothering while Newcastle could capitalize.
The game is swung around with the knife edge of VAR intervention, and the fallout is set to dominate the conversation even after the final whi.
The most controversial moment came when Arsenal was awarded a penalty, but it was only to be overturned after a long VAR check.
The initial decision looked promising for the gunners who felt they had the opportunity to control the match, but the referee was encouraged to review the footage. A thorough examination led Cole to reverse. This was something that didn’t work on Mikel Arteta’s side.
Many people inside the stadium and at home felt that Arsenal was in difficulty, and the decision prompted an immediate debate among experts and supporters.
If that wasn’t enough, Newcastle hit the other side and got what turned out to be a legitimate goal despite appeals from the Arsenal players.
Nick Urtemaid headed the ball towards the net when it appeared to have pushed Gabriel in the build-up.
Magpies were 1-0 and Arteta wasn’t happy with how things turned out for his team at St. James Park.
Arsenal is unhappy with VAR Call
Sky Sports’ Zinny Boswell wrote in the match coverage section of the website.
“That penalty decision clearly split the views. Arsenal found it difficult to overturn that, but there was nothing wrong with that Newcastle goal.
“Arsenal can see them feel like everything is against them. It will definitely be a fascinating second half and will be potentially a post-smash interview from Arteta, depending on the outcome.”
Whatever the end result, the match will be remembered in the umpire controversy, just like the football itself.
If Arsenal can’t secure a positive result, all eyes will be in Arteta’s post-match interview.
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