Arsenal were denied a penalty in their 2-1 win at Newcastle as Viktor Gyokeres was brought down by goalkeeper Nick Pope, with VAR controversially advising to overturn the on-field decision. Former referee Mark Halsey says the penalty should have stood, likening the decision to an infamous William Saliba incident last season. Fans are now questioning consistency in Premier League officiating.

Getty Images SportArsenal denied penalty after surprise VAR call

In the 14th minute at St James’ Park, Arsenal striker Gyokeres latched onto a slack back-pass and was taken down by goalkeeper Pope while through on goal. Referee Jarred Gillett initially awarded a penalty, but VAR intervened after replays suggested Pope touched the ball first before hauling the striker to the floor. The decision was overturned, with the spot kick denied despite protests from the Gunners.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportFormer PL ref believes Arsenal should've had the penalty

Former Premier League referee Halsey argued the on-field penalty decision was correct. He explained in his piece with , "Gyokeres' penalty should not have been overturned. Newcastle goalkeeper Pope got a touch on the ball but he did not win the ball. The touch does not negate the award of a penalty. Why did VAR get involved? It was not a clear and obvious error from referee Jarred Gillett. 

"The on-field decision should have stood. Gyokeres played it on to Pope, that is how he got the touch and then there is a late challenge and brings him down. How many times do you see a foul given for a player that wins the ball and follows through? The touch does not mean it is not a penalty. VAR should not have got involved."

Getty Images SportOrdeal likened with Salibs incident from last season

Halsey also highlighted the inconsistency in Premier League refereeing, adding, "We saw this last season at Brighton when William Saliba was adjudged to have committed a foul on Joao Pedro after he headed the ball. This situation is exactly the same – clear and obvious, the on-field decision should have stood."

Arsenal managed to fight back for the win

Arsenal came out on top despite the controversial moment, as they put on a spectacular late comeback after Mikel Merino brought the Gunners level in the 84th minute before Gabriel Magalhaes scored the winner in the 96th minute of the game. However, fans and pundits alike will continue to scrutinise refereeing decisions, especially in tight matches against top-six rivals.