Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and vice-captain Bukayo Saka both bemoaned the decisions made by VAR in Sunday’s 2–1 win over Newcastle United, yet expert analysis of all the incidents suggest that it was the Magpies who ought to feel hard done by.
As has become tradition on Arsenal’s trips to St James’ Park, spectators were treated to a thumping atmosphere, thrilling physical duels and plenty of refereeing controversy.
The Gunners were the first to lament the intervention of VAR Darren England as the first-half penalty earned by Viktor Gyökeres was ultimately overturned upon review. Newcastle, moments after Mikel Merino’s equaliser cancelled out Nick Woltemade’s opener, were left questioning why VAR didn’t get involved when Gabriel appeared to handle the ball inside Arsenal’s penalty box.
The all-action Brazilian, who also escaped any punishment for clouting Woltemade in the face, popped up with the winning goal.
