VAR was introduced to the English Premier League about a season or two ago. The idea got some backlash once it was out there. Not everyone was for it and it was a process making it official, after some serious debating by the English Football Association. But to be honest I was a staunch supporter of bringing VAR to the Premier League. Some fans didn’t want VAR introduced believing it would ‘spoil football’ by introducing too much ‘technology’.
My thoughts are, better VAR than no VAR. Imagine your favorite team scoring a goal and the goal being denied despite the fact that it went over the line and replays show that it did. Wouldn’t you go crazy especially if it’s a crucial game?
The reverse is also true, once your team concedes this type of goal but the referee waves play on and ignores the cries of goal, you will be elated and VAR will be your enemy. To be honest though, you never know what side you will end up so I say, VAR is the way forward. Ask England fans when they faced Germany some time back and Frank Lampard’s goal was disallowed, I’m sure they wished VAR was present for that game.
The Spanish League (La Liga) is the only League in the top 5 leagues which does not use VAR. Although it is said that that this may change in the 2018-2019 season. Until then though, some teams may suffer while others may benefit. The best example is Barcelona. Last season Barcelona were denied a clear goal at Betis which proved to be a crucial decision that hampered their title chances. Sunday’s game also saw Barcelona denied a goal versus the (in form) Valencia. Hope it doesn’t prove crucial since Barcelona are top of the League. To read more posts by Eddie, click HERE
Photo Credit: fifa.com
