VAR Heartbreak for Burnley in Dramatic Premier League Defeat
Burnley were left furious after a late equalising goal was controversially disallowed by VAR during a chaotic 4-3 Premier League defeat against Brentford at Turf Moor. The dramatic incident occurred deep into added time, with Ashley Barnes seeing his potential leveller ruled out for handball after a lengthy video review.
Chaotic Final Moments at Turf Moor
With Burnley trailing 4-3 in the eighth minute of additional time, defender Maxime Esteve launched a desperate long ball from his own half into the Brentford penalty area. Joe Worrall connected with the delivery, heading the ball across goal where substitute Ashley Barnes fired home from close range, sending the home crowd into rapturous celebration.
The jubilation proved short-lived as VAR officials immediately intervened to review the build-up to the goal. After several tense minutes of examination, referee Sam Barrott was instructed to consult the pitchside monitor, where replays showed Barnes had made contact with the ball using his arm before striking his shot.
Referee's Explanation and Aftermath
Referee Barrott explained his decision to the players and crowd, announcing: "After review - number 35, Ashley Barnes, accidentally handles the ball." The ruling meant Burnley's last-gasp equaliser was chalked off, with the full-time whistle sounding shortly afterwards to confirm Brentford's narrow victory.
The decision leaves Burnley empty-handed despite a spirited performance that saw seven goals scored in an end-to-end encounter. The Clarets had fought back from behind on multiple occasions throughout the match, only to be denied at the death by the controversial VAR intervention.
Growing VAR Controversy in Premier League
This latest incident adds to the ongoing debate about VAR's implementation in English football, particularly regarding handball interpretations in crucial moments. Burnley manager Scott Parker will undoubtedly feel aggrieved by the timing and nature of the decision, which came during what he described as "last chance saloon" for his team.
The match had already been notable for its high-scoring nature and dramatic momentum shifts before the late controversy, with both teams contributing to an entertaining spectacle that ultimately ended in bitter disappointment for the home side.
