In the midst of the action-packed spectacle at Old Trafford yesterday, a significant incident unfolded quietly, almost unnoticed. It was a fleeting moment that escaped many spectators’ attention amidst the thrilling chaos.
During a thrilling English Cup match between Manchester United and Liverpool, a controversial moment arose that could have sparked controversy in Scottish football, which abides by the same set of rules despite what some may think. The game was filled with ups and downs, with a particular instance when a cross from Alejandro Garnacho struck the hand of Liverpool’s Andy Robertson, prompting a possible penalty shout that went unheeded by the on-field referee.
While the decision was left unchecked by the referee, VAR officials quickly reviewed the incident. Within seconds, they decided against awarding a penalty despite the clear contact with Robertson’s arm. Fortunately, common sense prevailed, and the game continued without delay.
Reflecting back to a recent match between Celtic and Hearts, a similar handball incident occurred that led to chaos on the field. The questionable VAR intervention in that game, along with other contentious decisions, left many baffled by the officials’ judgment.
At Old Trafford, however, the match progressed smoothly without any prolonged disruptions from VAR, contrasting sharply with recent events in Scottish football. The swift decision-making by the officials ensured that the game flowed seamlessly, much to the relief of everyone involved.
In the end, the contrasting experiences highlighted the unpredictability of VAR and the impact it can have on the game. While some matches may face needless interruptions and controversies, others can navigate through without significant disruptions. It’s a reminder of the fine line between efficient officiating and disruptive interventions that can shape the outcome of a game.
It seems that they are not happy that the Celtic manager mentioned the VAR guru by name, even though the organization had already shared this information well before the game was set to begin.
It’s not hard to spot those who monitor the multiple screens at Clydesdale House in Glasgow during matchdays. They are the ones arriving in cars with falling-off doors, roofs soaring into the sky, and all four wheels detaching from the vehicle.
You can also recognize them by their size 20 shoes, boldly patterned oversized trousers, flashy wigs, and variously colored false bulbous noses.
