The Premier League issued two VAR statements following the dramatic 1-1 draw between Arsenal and Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday, which was sparked by protests from Arsenal fans.
Arsenal entered the match knowing a win would reduce the gap to Liverpool to just four points, as Liverpool’s derby against Everton was postponed due to severe weather. However, Mikel Arteta’s side struggled in the first half and fell behind early to a goal from Raul Jimenez.
Arteta’s halftime talk seemed to energize his team, and they pushed for an equalizer, which came in the 52nd minute when William Saliba scored from close range. VAR reviewed the goal and upheld the referee’s decision, confirming that Saliba was onside. The Premier League’s Match Centre later explained via Twitter: “The referee’s call of goal was checked and confirmed by the VAR as Saliba was in an onside position.”
However, Arsenal’s hopes of a late victory were dashed. Bukayo Saka thought he had won the game with a header from Gabriel Martinelli’s cross, but VAR ruled Martinelli was marginally offside in the build-up.
In a follow-up statement, the Premier League clarified: “Saka’s goal was initially awarded on-field. VAR checked and determined that Martinelli was in an offside position in the build-up and recommended the goal be disallowed.”
As a result, Arsenal remains six points behind Liverpool in the title race, with Liverpool still holding a game in hand that could extend their lead to nine points.
