Understanding VAR Decisions in the Premier League: An Insightful Analysis

The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) has been a source of controversy in the Premier League, often raising questions about the correctness of decisions made on the field. This season, we delve into significant incidents to clarify the VAR protocol and its alignment with the Laws of the Game.

Andy Davies, a former Select Group referee with over 12 seasons in the elite ranks, provides valuable insights into the operational processes and protocols of VAR during Premier League matches. His extensive experience enables a comprehensive understanding of the nuances involved in decision-making.

**Incident Overview**
**Referee**: Darren England
**VAR**: Mathew Donohue
**Time**: 63 minutes
**Incident**: Handball by Jaydee Canvot, leading to a penalty for Chelsea

In a pivotal moment, Chelsea forward João Pedro’s shot was blocked by Crystal Palace defender Jaydee Canvot, who used his arm to deflect the ball while it was positioned close to his side. Initially, no penalty was awarded, but VAR official Mathew Donohue advised referee Darren England to review the incident on the monitor. Upon reassessment, England characterized the handball as “accidental” but still awarded a penalty, along with a yellow card for Canvot instead of a red.

Crystal Palace supporters visibly expressed relief upon hearing the accidental classification; however, confusion arose when the penalty was still awarded. Ultimately, the intervention by VAR and the subsequent decision by England were accurate under the revised handball law, which was implemented last season. This law stipulates that a player can be penalized for a handball that obstructs a goal-scoring opportunity, without automatic dismissal, hence the issuance of a yellow card while still awarding a penalty.

**Incident Overview**
**Referee**: Farai Hallam
**VAR**: Darren England
**Time**: 37 minutes
**Incident**: Potential handball by Wolves defender Yerson Mosquera

During a match, Manchester City attacker Omar Marmoush maneuvered past Wolves defender Yerson Mosquera, with the ball appearing to strike Mosquera’s outstretched arm. Despite contact, referee Farai Hallam initially allowed play to continue. Following a thorough VAR check, England recommended an on-field review, believing Mosquera’s arm was positioned unnaturally. However, Hallam, on his Premier League debut, opted to maintain his original decision of no handball.

The decision by Hallam, to uphold his initial ruling after consulting the monitor, is uncommon but commendable, showcasing confidence and decisiveness. He became the first referee this season to reaffirm his call post-review, leading to discussions about the accuracy of his ruling.

From my perspective, the VAR intervention was justified as video evidence indicated that Mosquera’s arm was indeed in an unnatural position at the moment of contact. The defender’s arm extended away from his body after the ball was redirected by Marmoush, fulfilling the criteria for a handball offense under current regulations. While the decision sparked debate regarding Hallam’s courage, it is crucial to note that the refereeing team reached the correct conclusion based on the prevailing interpretation of handball offenses, suggesting that a penalty should have been awarded.