Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised the match officials for overturning a late equalizer in his side’s 1-0 victory over West Ham United in the Premier League on Saturday.
The Gunners took the lead in the 83rd minute through Leandro Trossard, and the goal stood as the winner. However, deep into stoppage time, West Ham thought they had equalized, only for the goal to be disallowed after a VAR review determined that there had been a foul on Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya in the buildup.
According to reports, it took referee Chris Kavanagh 2 minutes and 35 seconds from the ball crossing the line to the first check on the monitor, and a total of 4 minutes and 17 seconds to reach a final decision after viewing 17 replays. The decision has sparked debate, with some criticizing the lengthy delay.
Speaking after the match, Arteta defended the officials, saying it took “a lot of courage” to give the on-field referee the opportunity to review the play. “When we need to criticize, we do. Today we have to praise them (VAR),” he told Sky Sports.
“The referee needed a lot of courage and nerve to be given the chance to review the play. When you look at the image, there is no doubt it was a clear foul. They were very brave. That play deserved a foul. In my opinion, it was very clear. The rules are established, and we are asking for consistency.”
