- Sean Dyche has criticised VAR after Everton had a penalty decision overturned
- The FA could discipline Dyche, however, as they crack down on referee criticism
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Sean Dyche has opened the new season with a blast at VAR – despite managers being warned that criticism of officials risks undermining the Premier League.
Dyche was left fuming after his Everton side had a penalty decision overturned in Saturday’s home defeat against Brighton.
Referee Simon Hooper initially pointed to the spot early in the second half after judging that Dominic Calvert-Lewin had been fouled by Albion captain Lewis Dunk, before changing his mind after being sent to the monitor.
Everton, trailing 1-0 at the time, ended up losing the game 3-0.
New guidelines from officials had indicated Stockley Park would try to intervene less this season.
Everton boss Sean Dyche has blasted the officiating during his side’s 3-0 loss to Brighton
Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin had a penalty decision overturned by VAR
VAR deemed Calvert-Lewin was adjudged not to have been fouled by Brighton’s Lewis Dunk
Dyche said afterwards: ‘I can’t work it out on the penalty.
‘He (the referee) makes a decision in a perfect viewing point and lo and behold is called over to overturn it.
‘So what is the point of a high bar then? We’ve had meetings about it.
‘Their player is out of control on the floor and drags his foot along with the top of his foot and the bottom of Dom’s so that clearly pulls him to the ground.
‘That is contact in the box and we have all seen the tiniest things given as a penalty – someone treads on a toe and they give a penalty. So I think we are all confused by this.’
Dyche’s comments may not be welcomed by authorities given that Premier League chief football officer Tony Scholes and referees’ chief Howard Webb, held meetings with managers before the season warning that attacking VAR decisions would reduce confidence in the league.
To complicate matters at Goodison, Mr Hooper had to consult a second smaller monitor after technical issues stopped the main one from working.
Dyche (left) risks drawing the wrath of FA bosses who say criticism of officials ‘undermines the Premier League’
The Premier League Match Centre explained the decision: ‘The referee awarded a penalty to Everton for a foul by Dunk on Calvert-Lewin.
The VAR recommended an on-field review as he deemed Calvert-Lewin’s foot landed on Dunk’s foot and there was no foul. The referee overturned the original decision and play restarted with a drop ball.’
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler said it was ‘clear’ the original penalty call was wrong and should have been overturned.
