Arsenal move one step closer to winning the Premier League with victory over West Ham United, but Callum Wilson’s goal is ruled out by VAR
West Ham vs Arsenal goal disallowed due to VAR intervention
Gary Neville has declared the VAR decision to disallow West Ham’s goal against Arsenal the biggest moment for technology in Premier League history. The Gunners took three points against the Irons after Callum Wilson’s goal was canceled out in the 94th minute.
VAR boss Darren England was left to consider whether Chris Kavanagh should review his goal after the former Newcastle striker found the back of the net. Mr Kavanagh was eventually seen being sent to monitors to determine whether West Ham star Pablo had unfairly interfered with David Raya as the crowd jostled and held him down.
After taking stock of the incident, officials announced to the stadium: “After consideration, West Ham’s number 19 committed a foul on the goalkeeper.The final decision was a direct free kick.”
While decision-making was underway, Neville revealed what a big moment it was in Arsenal’s season, and for refereeing in England. “I have to say that the great striker crossed David Raya with his arm. He certainly thwarted him,” he said on commentary.
“And VAR… what are they going to do? This is the biggest moment in VAR history in the Premier League. This is huge.”
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“Did VAR have the nerve, guts and courage to make the decision? This is a huge thing for referees in this country. Arsenal Football Club could get their first title in 22 years with this.”
“This is too big to be wrong. I think it’s a foul on Raya.”
At full-time, Neville doubled down on his decision, suggesting the end of the game will go down in Premier League legend. “If Arsenal are going to keep going and win the title, this is halfway there,” he said.
VAR deems Pablo to have fouled David Raya during Arsenal vs. West Ham (Image: Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
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“This is a legendary game, the late goal, the late VAR decision by Darren England at Stockley Park and Arsenal getting over the line.
“This is a monumental move for this great club as they look to win their first Premier League title in 22 years. David Raya gets a well-deserved hug from Mikel Arteta.”
Arsenal icon Ian Wright was delighted to see his team cross the line and said the VAR flag for the foul was a blessing. But he believes the earlier moments were more important.
“By whatever means necessary in that moment. We had to stay in that situation and we had to win the game,” he said.
“In the end we did it. David Raya’s save gave us the title.
“Even with the foul, we saw it now. He was blocking with his arms crossed. It was like a blessing!”
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