Match of the Day pundits Alan Shearer and Danny Murphy have lambasted the VAR intervention that allowed Chelsea to claim all three points against West Ham on Saturday afternoon.
The Blues ran out 2-1 winners at Stamford Bridge thanks to late goals from Ben Chilwell and Kai Havertz, but still had to rely on a controversial refereeing decision to disallow a last gasp Hammers equaliser.
Advertisement
Advertisement
West Ham forward Jarrod Bowen was deemed to have caught home goalkeeper Edouard Mendy with a trailing boot in the buildup to Maxwel Cornet’s 90th minute strike, subsequently causing VAR to advise referee Andy Madley to take a second look at the incident.
The official then ruled out the goal, much to the anger of Irons boss David Moyes and his players alike.
Reflecting on the decision on Match of the Day, Shearer was quick to offer his support to the disgruntled Scot.
He said: “Minimum interference, maximum benefit was what we were told when VAR was brought in.
Advertisement
Advertisement
“This decision was as bad a decision as you’re going to see.
“They’re told to stay out of it, the VAR. There’s no need to get involved in this. This is never ever ever a foul. I don’t think anyone who has played the game would agree with the VAR and the referee.
“The keeper goes down because he realises he’s made a rick, Bowen is trying to get over him and actually steps over him, doesn’t interfere with him whatsoever.
“Why doesn’t he [Madley] stick to his decision?
“It’s a terrible, disgraceful decision. It is beyond terrible.”
Advertisement
Advertisement
Likewise, fellow pundit Murphy also voiced his incredulity at the incident.
He added: “It’s actually unbelievable. It’s ridiculous.”