VAR has once again had a say in the Premier League, with Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp left outraged by the “horrific” decision in Arsenal’s win against Everton.
Max Dowman makes history as Arsenal’s storm continues
The hosts dominated early in the contest, but it was the Toffees who created the better chances at half-time, including an effort off the woodwork by Dwight McNeil.
Everton continued to make things difficult in the second half, but the introduction of Viktor Gyokeres and Max Dowman just after the hour proved a special choice by Gunners manager Mikel Arteta.
It was Dowman’s cross that proved critical for Gyokeres who finally broke the deadlock with a minute left, the youngster then sending the home support and his manager into a frenzy as he added a stoppage-time cushion.
Not much better for Mikel Arteta’s side, who dragged themselves from a point to three as they enjoyed one of the best moments of the season, courtesy of their young star.
The win piles the pressure on Manchester City to continue. Any further setbacks, Arsenal could be 10 points clear and well on their way to Premier League glory.
It is also worth noting that the North London side are still in the competition. There is a real chance to make undeniable history by winning an unprecedented quadruple. That is the level this team has been in compared to the rest of European football this season.
Of course, Arsenal may also feel that their late victory was deserved after one VAR call almost cost them.
Redknapp slams VAR for “terrible” call.
To say the former Liverpool man didn’t hold back would be an understatement. Redknapp criticized VAR’s decision to overturn Arsenal’s penalty appeal in the first half, when Kai Havertz was brought down by Michael Keane.
“It’s very clear. How did the VAR take three seconds that that’s not a penalty? That’s a bad decision. It’s definitely a penalty and it should be overturned.
“We see the VAR making decisions sometimes that everyone at home can see it’s not a penalty and it takes five minutes. They took three seconds to say it’s not a penalty. That’s an absolute shame.”
Arsenal will be feeling hard done by, especially as they were almost caught out by yet another. It would be a double draw in their last two games, as they were also held by Bayer Leverkusen in midweek.
However, on this occasion, it was Gyokeres who rose to the rescue for the North London side.
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The Gunners “really want” to sign a new midfielder.
The Swede was in a perfect position to take advantage of Jordan Pickford’s chance to forget to enjoy a tap-in. It’s the kind of time he was signed for, as Arsenal continue their pursuit of Premier League glory with a piece of history from Dowman along the way.
