In a dramatic and contentious Premier League clash, Newcastle United narrowly edged out Arsenal on Saturday, clinching a crucial victory that was heavily influenced by VAR decisions. The match was filled with feisty moments, VAR checks for potentially dangerous plays, and a lone controversial goal that ultimately secured all three points for the Magpies.
Both teams entered the encounter on the back of contrasting results in the midweek Carabao Cup fixtures. Arsenal had suffered a 3-1 defeat at the hands of West Ham, while Newcastle had convincingly beaten Manchester United 3-0 on the same day. The contrasting fortunes of the two teams set the stage for an intriguing showdown at St. James’ Park.
Newcastle started the game on the front foot, displaying the positive momentum gained from their midweek victory. The home crowd was treated to slick passing and dominant possession in the opening 10 to 15 minutes of the match. However, Arsenal gradually found their rhythm and began to assert themselves, gaining more control of the ball.
Despite Arsenal’s increasing possession, it was Newcastle’s defense, led by goalkeeper Nick Pope, that stood firm and blocked numerous attempts from the Gunners. Arsenal managed to rack up seven shots within 10 minutes during the first half, but a resilient Magpies’ defense thwarted their efforts.
As the first half neared its conclusion, the match grew increasingly heated. Kai Havertz received a yellow card for a late challenge on Dan Burn, which led to protests from the Newcastle players who believed the German should have been sent off. However, VAR replays confirmed that Havertz had only clipped Burn with his trailing foot, leading to yellow cards for three different Newcastle players due to their complaints.
Just before halftime, Bruno Guimaraes delivered a controversial elbow to the back of Jorginho’s head off the ball. VAR reviewed the incident but opted not to request referee Stuart Attwell’s intervention, allowing Guimaraes to escape further punishment.
The second half began much like the first, with Newcastle showing promise in their attacks. This time, they capitalized on their opportunities, with Anthony Gordon breaking the deadlock after a scramble in Arsenal’s box. However, VAR came into play once again, scrutinizing various aspects of the goal, including the ball potentially going out of play, a foul by Joelinton on Gabriel, a handball by Joelinton, and Gordon potentially being offside when he scored.
Despite the controversies surrounding the goal, VAR ultimately allowed it to stand, giving Newcastle the crucial lead. This controversial goal became the difference-maker as Newcastle secured the victory.
With this win, Newcastle United climbed to sixth place in the Premier League standings, while Arsenal suffered their first defeat of the top-flight campaign, slipping to third place. The Gunners will be eager to bounce back, while Newcastle’s confidence will be sky-high after this dramatic win. The Premier League table is as tight as ever, with Liverpool and Aston Villa lurking closely behind, ready to capitalize on any slip-ups from the top teams.
I like this post, enjoyed this one thanks for putting up. “The goal of revival is conformity to the image of Christ, not imitation of animals.” by Richard F. Lovelace.