Sport · Singapore Bureau
VAR official benched after Manchester derby Haaland goal controversy
Matt Donohue, the video assistant referee involved in the Manchester City versus Manchester United match, has been stood down from Premier League duties. The decision comes after the VAR's handling of Erling Haaland's match-winning goal in City's 1-0 victory.
LSN Singapore ·
The Premier League has removed Matt Donohue from next weekend's fixture list following his role in a controversial VAR decision during the Manchester derby on September 14. Haaland's winning goal for Manchester City against their cross-town rivals has drawn scrutiny, with Donohue's handling of the incident now resulting in his removal from upcoming matches.
Donohue's exclusion from the next round of Premier League games represents a significant decision by the league's officiating body. The move suggests concerns over the VAR's decision-making in the high-profile encounter between England's two Manchester clubs.
The incident highlights ongoing debate surrounding VAR's application in the Premier League. Controversial decisions in major matches have previously prompted reviews of match officials, with the league adjusting its scheduling of personnel in response to contentious calls.
Manchester City's 1-0 victory came at a critical moment in the season, and the controversy surrounding the goal has extended the discussion beyond the final whistle. The Premier League's response indicates the significance with which it treats VAR performance in high-stakes fixtures.