Ex-Premier League referee says VAR got it right in Tottenham Hotspur’s favour against Chelsea

Speaking on Sky Sports News’ Ref Watch, former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher believes that VAR decision to award Pierre-Emile Højbjerg’s goal for Tottenham Hotspur was the right one.

Those of a Chelsea persuasion believed Richarlison was blocking the view of goalkeeper Edouard Mendy as the Denmark international took his shot, thus interfering with play from an offside position.

However, the goal stood and Spurs levelled the game at 1-1.

The hosts took the lead shortly after through Reece James, only for the visitors to level it up at the death through Harry Kane.

‘Not committing an offence’...

Asked whether Richarlison was committing an offence, retired referee Gallagher said:

“He might be in an offside position but he is not committing an offence at that moment.

“The logic here is the VAR who checks it has to decide is he impacting on the goalkeeper? Now, you think yes, I think possibly, they think no.

“Their logic is, the ball comes a long way, he’s a long way from the goalkeeper and it also takes a knick off (Kalidou) Koulibaly so there is a number of factors that factored in that VAR felt the goal stood.”

Pundit Stephen Warnock, formerly of Leeds United and Liverpool, disagreed:

“He is in the vicinity of the goal, in and around the eyeline of (Edouard) Mendy. He is leaning to the left to see round (Richarlison).”

Heated encounter

Tottenham against Chelsea is becoming an increasing heated encounter every time they play, especially at Stamford Bridge.

Antonio Conte and Thomas Tuchel clashed a couple of times and were both send off at the end.

Spurs ensured they stayed in the game and took their chances when they came so will be satisfied with the result.

Next up for them is a home clash against Wolves this weekend.