Liam Keen analysis: Wolves pay the penalty for VAR’s ineptitude yet again
English football is at a crossroads with how it now tackles VAR and persistent mistakes.
Not only are controversial decisions being made every week, but it is happening several times a week and the integrity of the game is being harmed.
Another week, another penalty controversy and Wolves have a right to feel hard done by once again.
Granted, there is a level of subjectivity to many of these decisions, but when an overwhelming majority of the footballing community condemn it, it is usually a howler.
A lack of consistency and a lack of communication plagues the officials and the governing bodies, who hide behind mouthpieces such as Howard Webb. A quick explainer on Sky Sports might appease some, but the best league in the world is now suffering due to severe incompetence.
Not only have Wolves suffered this week, but Mikel Arteta has been left fuming after an incredibly long VAR check did not overturn Newcastle’s goal against his Arsenal side.
Gary O’Neil was equally as fuming after the controversy at Bramall Lane and those two managers will not be alone in the weeks to come if something does not change quickly.
It comes down to two specific points – the standard of referees and the ability of VAR to do it’s job.
Firstly, the officials in the English game, as they have shown for a number of years, are not up to the job.
