The Premier League's Key Match Incidents Panel has ruled that Arsenal should have conceded a penalty in their 1-0 victory over Brighton on 4 March, confirming a major VAR error. Bukayo Saka's early strike proved decisive, but Brighton were denied a spot-kick when Gabriel Martinelli pulled down Mats Wieffer in the box. Referee Chris Kavanagh and VAR official Michael Salisbury allowed play to continue, but the panel voted 4-1 that a penalty should have been awarded.
This marks the second time this season Arsenal have benefitted from a VAR mistake. In December, William Saliba's challenge on Everton's Thierno Barry was not deemed a foul by VAR, with Salisbury again on duty. Everton boss David Moyes expressed frustration, stating he could not discuss the decision without risking a fine.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler and his staff clashed with Mikel Arteta after the match, also accusing Arsenal of time-wasting. The incidents have reignited debate over the consistency of VAR decisions in the Premier League title race.
