Importance Score: 65 / 100 🔴
During the FA Cup clash between Crystal Palace and Manchester City, Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson avoided a sending-off for a handball incident outside his area. Despite preventing Erling Haaland from latching onto a through ball, VAR (Video Assistant Referee) decided not to intervene, sparking widespread debate and raising questions about the interpretation of clear and obvious goalscoring opportunities. This FA Cup incident has reignited discussions regarding VAR consistency and application.
The Controversial Handball Incident
The incident occurred when Henderson, 28, used his hand to divert the ball away from Haaland just outside of his designated area. Many observers, including players and commentators, believed this action warranted a red card, deeming it a denial of a clear goal-scoring chance. The subsequent decision of VAR not to penalize Henderson left several individuals confused and frustrated, claiming that it was a clear error.
Reaction from Pundits
Following the event, there was criticism from observers who were covering the game.
- Wayne Rooney, speaking on BBC One, expressed his strong disagreement with the decision. “It’s a red card. 100 per cent, it’s a red card. Haaland is about to knock it round him and as we see, he sweeps the ball away. It’s a red card, how can they get this wrong?”
- Micah Richards, a former City defender, echoed Rooney’s sentiment, stating: “It’s a red card, no debate, it was outside. They can talk about whatever ruling they want but…”
VAR’s Explanation
Gary Lineker offered insight into VAR’s line of reasoning, stating the conversation he had had with them regarding the issue, explaining: “This is what VAR have said. We’ve been in contact with them and they said, ‘The direction Haaland was going made it a possible, but not an obvious, goalscoring opportunity.'” VAR seemingly justified their non-intervention due to uncertainty surrounding Haaland’s trajectory. The explanation did not sit right with the commentary crew.
Dissenting Opinions
Lineker added to his point, explaining, “I’ve never heard the word obvious used for denying a goalscoring opportunity before. The only one I would say is likelihood of keeping or gaining control of the ball, that’s the only one I think they could probably have argued.”
Rooney expressed his frustration, explaining that “Just get rid of VAR. They’ve made a mistake so now they’re trying to cover up for their mate out there. It’s a red card. Everyone can see it’s a red card. To come out with all this rubbish.”
Henderson’s Recovery
Despite the controversy, Henderson quickly composed himself, crucially saving Omar Marmoush’s penalty. This save preserved Crystal Palace’s lead, which was established earlier by Eberechi Eze’s goal.