Arsenal Denied Penalty in VAR Drama Against Newcastle

There is rarely a shortage of controversy when Arsenal face Newcastle at St James’ Park, and Saturday’s clash was no different.

The Gunners thought they had been handed a golden chance in the 14th minute when Viktor Gyokeres was brought down by Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope after latching onto a poor backpass from Jacob Murphy. Referee Jarred Gillett immediately pointed to the spot.

But after a VAR intervention showed Pope made contact with the ball before colliding with Gyokeres, Gillett reversed his decision following a review at the pitchside monitor.

The official explained to players and fans: “After review, the Newcastle goalkeeper plays the ball and there is no foul. The final decision is drop ball.”

What the Laws Say

According to IFAB Law 12, a direct free-kick (or penalty in the box) is awarded if a player tackles or challenges an opponent in a careless, reckless, or excessively forceful manner. Simply touching the ball does not always negate a foul if the challenge still wipes out the opponent.

Pundit Reaction

• Gary Neville (Sky Sports): “I’m definitely torn. Nick Pope does get a touch and that is usually the barometer for referees.”
• Pat Nevin (BBC 5 Live): “Yes, he got a touch, but he still took out the player.”
• Joe Hart (MOTD): “If Pope touches the ball, then it’s not a penalty – and he does.”
• Jamie Redknapp (Sky Sports): “Even though he got a touch, he still fouls the player. I’m surprised it got overturned.”
• Les Ferdinand (Sky Sports): “Once the goalkeeper gets a touch and deviates the ball, it’s not a penalty.”

The debate will rage on, but what is clear is that VAR once again stole the headlines in a fiery Premier League contest.