Newcastle’s late penalty appeal against Arsenal was denied after VAR confirmed Gabriel’s handball was not an offence due to a deflection.
Newcastle Denied Penalty in Arsenal Clash
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Newcastle's late penalty appeal against Arsenal was denied after VAR confirmed Gabriel's handball was not an offence due to a deflection.
In a tightly contested Premier League match, Newcastle United were denied a late penalty in their 2-1 defeat to Arsenal at St James’ Park. The incident in question occurred when Arsenal’s Gabriel attempted a slide tackle on Anthony Elanga, resulting in the ball striking his outstretched arm in the penalty area.
Referee Jarred Gillett ruled that it was not a penalty, a decision that was subsequently confirmed by the video assistant referee (VAR). The Premier League Match Centre explained that the ball deflected off Gabriel’s shin onto his arm, which under the current rules, does not constitute a handball offence.
Former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin expressed his initial belief that it was a handball, but acknowledged the referee’s decision upon review. Match of the Day pundit Ellen White supported the decision, highlighting the deflection off Gabriel’s shin as the key factor in the ruling.
Key talking points
- Newcastle’s penalty appeal was denied against Arsenal.
- Gabriel’s handball was deemed not an offence by VAR.
- The ball deflected off Gabriel’s shin before hitting his arm.
- Referee Jarred Gillett’s decision was upheld by VAR.
The context
This decision underscores the ongoing evolution of handball rules in the Premier League, where not all contact between the ball and a player’s arm results in a penalty. The incident highlights the importance of VAR in confirming on-field decisions and ensuring the rules are applied consistently.
