Mikel Arteta Blasts VAR Disgrace After Controversial Anthony Gordon Goal
Written By: Abidoye Babatunde
Mikel Arteta said it was a “disgrace” that Anthony Gordon’s controversial goal in Newcastle’s 1-0 win over Arsenal was allowed to stand, as the Gunners saw their unbeaten start to the season come to a halt at St James’ Park.
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Gordon’s goal survived a lengthy VAR check that considered three decisions. The main point of contention was whether the ball went out of play on the far side of the pitch, prior to Joe Willock putting the cross into the box. VAR also checked if Joelinton had fouled Arsenal defender Gabriel, as well as whether Gordon was offside. It took over four minutes for the VAR to decide that the goal could be given.
Afterwards, Arteta said it was “embarrassing” that the goal was allowed to stand. Given the camera angles available to the VAR at Stockley Park, the Premier League explained that the VAR did not have the evidence to prove the ball was definitely out of play.
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“Embarrassing what happened – how this goal stands, in the Premier League – this league we say is the best in the world,” Arteta told the BBC after the defeat, although the Arsenal manager also used the same terms to describe his anger in his press conference and with Sky Sports.
“I’ve been 20 years in this country and now I feel ashamed. It’s a disgrace and there’s too much at stake here.
“We are trying to do incredible things and be at the highest level each week. When we’re not good enough I hold my hands up and take responsibility.
“The outcome is nowhere near the level this league needs to have and the way this league is getting competed in. It’s not good enough. I feel embarrassed to be part of this.”
The result was Arsenal’s first Premier League defeat of the season and it left the Gunners three points behind leaders Manchester City in the table.
Gordon admitted he was anxious as his goal was being checked, telling Sky Sports: “I don’t know how many checks there were but I was just hoping it was alright. It was amazing to score, what a game.
“It shows our togetherness, we’re a real team and we show that in every game. We’ve had some really good results this year – but we’ve just shown our togetherness.
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“It all comes down to the gaffer, how he drills us in training. It doesn’t matter who plays we all know our jobs and what we have to do.”
Newcastle captain Jamal Lascelles added: “We’ve got great depth, competition in all areas and that’s what it’s all about – we have a lot more games this year. We’re in a good place.
“Whatever test I face I try to do as well as I can and give 110 per cent. I’ve had an opportunity to play and I just give my all for the badge and that’s all I can do.”
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