Controversy Erupts at the Etihad
Frustration and disbelief swept through the Manchester City camp during their Premier League encounter with Newcastle United, after a pivotal decision went against them. The home side's passionate appeals for a penalty were dismissed following a VAR review, leaving players and staff incensed.
The Incident That Sparked Outrage
The flashpoint occurred in the 17th minute of the match. Jeremy Doku found fellow star Phil Foden inside the Newcastle penalty area. The England international swiftly took a shot, which flew wide of the target. However, the danger was far from over.
As Foden unleashed his effort, Newcastle defender Fabian Schar attempted a last-ditch tackle. Replays indicated that Schar's challenge made clear contact with Foden's left foot. Crucially, this contact happened after the ball had already gone. Foden was immediately sent tumbling to the ground, clutching his left foot in pain, while his City teammates surrounded the official, vehemently appealing for a spot-kick.
VAR Review Upholds On-Field Decision
The incident was automatically referred to the Video Assistant Referee for a check. After a period of review, the officials in the stockley Park hub decided to stick with the original on-field decision – no penalty. This verdict has since been heavily debated among pundits and fans alike.
Adding his voice to the analysis, former Manchester City defender Micah Richards suggested a potential reason for the non-call. Richards theorised that Schar may have avoided being penalised specifically because Foden had already taken his shot, implying that the officials deemed the contact inconsequential to the immediate play.
The decision proved to be a major talking point in a match where fine margins can decide the destination of vital Premier League points. The sense of injustice within the Manchester City squad was palpable, marking another chapter in the ongoing debate surrounding the application of VAR in football.
