Thomas Frank criticizes VAR decision in Tottenham-Newcastle draw
Thomas Frank branded the late VAR decision that nearly cost Tottenham Hotspur a point at St James’ Park an “absolute mistake,” insisting the intervention should never have overridden the on-field call, reports BritPanorama.
Spurs salvaged a 2-2 draw after Cristian Romero’s acrobatic stoppage-time equaliser. However, the manager’s focus following the match was squarely on the 86th-minute penalty awarded to Newcastle, which resulted from what appeared to be routine jostling at a corner.
The controversy erupted when referee Thomas Bramall was called to the pitchside monitor after VAR identified Rodrigo Bentancur involved in a grappling exchange with Dan Burn inside the box. Initially, Bramall waved play on, but the review prompted a late penalty, converted by Anthony Gordon, putting Newcastle ahead 2-1.
League officials later justified the decision, asserting that Bentancur “clearly does not look at the ball” during a “holding offence.” Frank, however, remained unconvinced. “It was an absolute mistake from the VAR,” he said, affirming that the referee had rightly made his call on the pitch. “They encourage referees to stick to their decisions on the field.”
While many shared Frank’s sentiment, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe had a different perspective, observing post-match that the defender was not focused on the ball. “The big thing is the defender isn’t looking at the ball at all; he’s looking at Dan. I think it’s probably the right call,” he stated.
Across the football community, reaction overwhelmingly criticised the VAR intervention, with several former players arguing that such incidents would result in a plethora of penalties if they were consistently applied. Izzy Christiansen noted, “You’re giving a penalty every single game if you’re giving a penalty for that.”
Clinton Morrison added, “We’ve got six games tomorrow; there’ll be loads of defending like that. Let’s see if VAR calls that.” Jonathan Woodgate described the physical contest bluntly: “Dan Burn climbed all over him. It’s like a heavyweight UFC fighter against a featherweight.”
In further critique, Micah Richards expressed that while Bentancur’s lack of focus on the ball fitted the criteria for a penalty, there wasn’t enough holding involved. “Burn is just too strong for him,” he suggested, indicating that the refereeing decision was sound. Jamie Redknapp reinforced the demand for consistency, noting that Burn’s lack of protest indicated the dubious nature of the penalty call.
This incident has reignited discussions about the standards for officiating in the Premier League and the role of VAR in shaping match outcomes, a topic that remains contentious among players, coaches, and fans alike. As the football season progresses, the emphasis on clarity and consistency in officiating will likely be under close scrutiny.
