Former Premier League referee Mark Halsey stated that VAR would not reverse the controversial penalty awarded to Everton against Arsenal.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal`s manager, was furious as his team lost ground in the title race after a 1-1 draw at Goodison Park.
Leandro Trossard put Arsenal ahead in the first half.
However, early in the second half, Iliman Ndiaye equalized for Everton with a penalty.
Myles Lewis-Skelly was judged to have fouled Jack Harrison, though replays suggested a 50/50 situation and potential contact outside the box.
Speaking to SunSport, former Premier League referee Halsey explained the decision was unlikely to be overturned.
Halsey said: “Referee Darren England gave a penalty in the second half, judging that Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly fouled Jack Harrison during their 1-1 draw.”
“They were competing for the ball, and it was hard to see who fouled who, or if there was a foul at all, as contact began outside the penalty area.”
“No Everton player appealed for a penalty; Harrison immediately got up. VAR Stuart Attwell wouldn`t recommend a review because it wasn`t a clear and obvious error.”
“It was a subjective call, and when it goes against you, it feels unfair. Had the penalty not been initially awarded, it would not have been given.”
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was clearly angry, as the draw could allow Liverpool to extend their lead by 14 points.
Arteta commented: "I’ve reviewed it 15 times. In my opinion, it’s not a penalty at all."
"Apart from that, they created nothing, but it changed the game`s momentum and the result."
"I believe we deserved more, but we got a point. We missed two big chances to win, so we must accept the draw."
