VAR at Tottenham vs Man City: Should the penalty have been awarded for Danny Rose's handball?

Rose conceded a penalty... but Lloris saved the spot-kick
Getty Images
Tom Doyle9 April 2019

The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system was at the centre of more Champions League controversy on Tuesday night as Manchester City won a penalty against Tottenham.

Man City were awarded a penalty after 12 minutes when a cross from Riyad Mahrez hit Spurs defender Danny Rose on the arm.

No players appealed at the time, but referee Bjorn Kuipers pointed to the spot after consulting VAR. Fortunately for Spurs, Hugo Lloris saved Sergio Aguero's spot-kick as the decision divided opinion of fans and pundits alike.

There was definite controversy over the incident, but what do you think?

In Pictures | Tottenham vs Man City, Champions League | 09/04/2019

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How VAR works

VAR operates on a three-step process of incident, review/advice, decision, and across the four jurisdictions of football deemed 'game changing' by Fifa.

The IFAB says VAR is only to be used "to correct clear errors and for missed serious incidents" in those "match-changing" situations.

Photo: REUTERS
REUTERS

VARs and other match officials are able to recommend reviews, but the only person who can initiate one is the referee, who will then have the final say on whether their original decision should stand or be changed.

They have the option to review footage themselves on a pitch-side monitor before making a final decision.

Goals

VARs are used here to help the referee determine whether an infringement was made that should result in the goal not being awarded.

Penalties

Here, VAR will look to ensure that the correct decision was made regarding the award or non-award of a penalty.

Red cards

Much like with penalty decisions, VAR will look to ensure that the correct decision was made.

Mistaken identity

VAR will clarify which players should be cautioned or sent off, or correct the referee in the event of mistaken identity.

Where else will VAR be used?

The technology will be in place at this summer's Nations League Finals - which will feature England as well as Portugal, Netherlands and Switzerland.

Having been trialled at the World Cup in Russia, as well as certain FA Cup and League Cup fixtures in English football, the technology will also be used in the Premier League from next season after clubs agreed the introduction in principle at a meeting in November.

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