Howard Webb backs VAR decision to deny West Ham equaliser against Arsenal

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Howard Webb has defended the VAR process that led to West Ham’s late equaliser being overturned against Arsenal on Sunday, describing Pablo’s foul on David Raya as “clear and obvious”.

The incident occurred in what has been described as the most consequential decision in VAR history, when referee Chris Kavanagh chose to rule out Callum Wilson’s goal at the London Stadium after a lengthy review. The decision handed Arsenal a crucial advantage in the title race.

Webb explains the decision

Speaking on Match Officials Mic’d Up, the chief officer of Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO) explained that officials had specifically warned players about this type of challenge at the beginning of the season.

“Is it a foul on the goalkeeper? Categorically, yes,” Webb said. “The club had been told all season, including in pre-season briefings with the players, that if a goalkeeper is impeded by an opponent grabbing or holding their arms and therefore can’t do their job, they’ll be penalised.”

Webb emphasised that this wasn’t simply about any contact with goalkeepers, but rather “a specific type of contact when the goalkeeper’s arms or hands are being interfered with, stopping them doing their job.”

VAR process praised

The PGMO chief commended the diligence shown by VAR Darren England and assistant VAR Akil Howson during their four-minute review process. He acknowledged that while the incident wasn’t obvious to the on-field referee due to the crowded penalty area, it became clear through video analysis.

“When you see the best angle on this, you’ll see that that’s what happens from Pablo. And on the video, it’s clear and it’s obvious, and it happens early,” Webb explained.

He praised the officials for being “diligent” in their work, particularly given the magnitude of the situation. “It takes a bit of time because they’re going through a process pretty diligently because they really respect the game, and they’re aware, of course, of the size of this situation.”

The decision ultimately proved pivotal in Arsenal’s pursuit of the Premier League title, with the Gunners maintaining their position in the championship race. Webb’s backing of the VAR process suggests the officials made the correct call despite the controversy surrounding such a late and significant intervention.