Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday prompted the Premier League to release two VAR-related statements following controversial decisions that stirred protests from Arsenal fans.
The Gunners entered the match knowing that a victory against Marco Silva’s Fulham would narrow the gap between them and Liverpool to four points.
Liverpool’s derby clash with Everton had been postponed due to bad weather, giving Arsenal a chance to close in. However, Mikel Arteta’s side struggled during the first half and conceded an early goal to Raul Jimenez.
Arteta’s halftime talk seemed to energize Arsenal, who pressed hard for an equalizer after the break. In the 52nd minute, William Saliba scored from close range. After a VAR review confirmed that Saliba was onside, the goal was awarded.
The Premier League Match Centre clarified the decision on Twitter, stating, “The referee’s call of goal was checked and confirmed by the VAR as Saliba was in an onside position.”
Despite gaining momentum, Arsenal faced disappointment later when Bukayo Saka’s potential winning goal was ruled out. Saka headed in a cross from Gabriel Martinelli, but VAR determined that Martinelli had been narrowly offside in the buildup. As a result, the goal was disallowed.
The Premier League later issued a statement explaining, “Saka’s goal was initially awarded on-field. VAR checked and determined that Martinelli was in an offside position in the build-up and recommended that the goal be disallowed.”
Ultimately, Arsenal had to settle for a draw, a setback in their Premier League title pursuit. They now trail Liverpool by six points, with Liverpool still having a game in hand that could increase the gap to nine points.
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