Exploring Premier League VAR
Introduction:
Throughout a football season, VAR frequently emerges as a hot topic, sparking ongoing debates about its effectiveness. Having been unanimously approved by Premier League clubs in 2018, VAR made its debut last season. Since then, its application and interpretation of the rules have remained under constant scrutiny.
Offside Rule:
VAR employs two methods to determine offside positions: the ‘Gridline’ and ‘Crosshair’ lines. While the gridline indicates a clear offside position with a single line, the crosshair utilizes two lines aligning with any part of the attacker’s body capable of scoring. A recent decision against Sadio Mane, disallowing Jordan Henderson’s goal, showcased the use of crosshair lines. Despite initial appearances suggesting Mane’s onside status, VAR deemed a part of his elbow or shoulder offside, adhering to the rule considering body parts capable of scoring. Questions arise regarding the validity of rules reducing football to minute measurements and the allowance of goals scored with such body parts per handball regulations.
Handball Rules:
Recent handball incidents, such as Joel Ward’s against Everton, highlight the impact of new handball rules. These rules disregard player intent, as seen in Ward’s case where the extension of his arm resulted in a penalty. However, subsequent rule changes emphasizing the ‘expected’ position of the arm would negate such decisions. Factors like a player’s balance and arm position relative to the bodyline are considered, reducing the likelihood of penalties.
Referee Review Area (RRA):
The FA’s recent decision not to take retrospective action against Jordan Pickford following his challenge on Virgil Van Dijk raised concerns. Despite VAR initially suggesting an offside prior to the challenge, subsequent revelations indicate a subjective decision regarding the foul. The sparing use of pitch-side monitors, known as the Referee Review Area (RRA), aims to minimize game stoppages. However, the failure to utilize these monitors in crucial moments, such as Pickford’s challenge, highlights a gap in the system. Calls for increased transparency, including the use of microphones by officials to clarify decisions, echo frustrations with VAR’s perceived scientific approach to football.
Conclusion:
While VAR aims to assist on-field referees in making correct decisions, inconsistencies in rule application and revisions prompt questions about the system’s effectiveness and its alignment with the essence of the game. As discussions continue, the football community awaits further developments in VAR’s implementation.
