Peter Schmeichel blasts VAR decision after West Ham goal disallowed against Arsenal
Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel has slammed the VAR decision to disallow West Ham United’s late equaliser against Arsenal, describing the controversial call as “crazy”.
West Ham believed they had rescued a dramatic point in stoppage time when Callum Wilson bundled home a scrappy finish to make it 1-1 at the London Stadium.
However, referee Chris Kavanagh was advised by VAR Darren England to review the incident for a possible foul on Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.
Replays showed Pablo’s arm obstructing Raya while Jean-Clair Todibo also appeared to pull the goalkeeper’s shirt during the build-up.
After a lengthy review, Kavanagh ruled the goal out, preserving Arsenal’s crucial 1-0 victory.
‘It’s just so wrong’ — Schmeichel
Despite many viewing the decision as correct, Schmeichel strongly disagreed and accused officials of inconsistency.
“What really makes me angry is that Arsenal would never be top of the league if that’s a free-kick,” the former United goalkeeper said during Viaplay’s post-match coverage.
“That’s how they’ve scored so many goals, by blocking people, holding people, doing all kinds of things.”
Schmeichel also criticised the lengthy VAR process, arguing that the extended review itself suggested uncertainty over the decision.
“It takes VAR five minutes… he starts it over again and again. That in itself puts so much doubt into that decision that it cannot be a free-kick,” he added.
“All this, it’s just crazy. And that decision today, it’s just so wrong on so many levels.”
Arteta backs officials after huge title-race moment
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta defended the decision and praised the officials for having the courage to make such a major call in both the title race and relegation battle.
“Today I have to congratulate them,” Arteta said.
“When you see the picture, there is no question that it is a clear foul. They were very brave.”
The victory moved Arsenal five points clear of second-placed Manchester City as the Gunners closed in on a first Premier League title in 22 years.