Remember the good old days, before VAR? Less stress, more flowing football, and pure, unadulterated enjoyment? Yeah, me too. VAR, this supposed game-changer, has become one of the most divisive elements in the Premier League.
A few years in, and it’s still riddled with controversy. Just look at the outrage over the wrongly disallowed Liverpool goal against Tottenham! Even with audio exposes of the confusion at Stockley Park (VAR HQ), the system seems determined to leave us scratching our heads.
And that’s just one high-profile blunder. Many teams have been on the wrong end of dubious decisions this season. Manchester World even went so far as to put together a whole new Premier League table without VAR’s meddling!
While West Ham’s league position wouldn’t change, VAR decisions have certainly caused some drama for the Hammers this season. A controversial red card for Nayef Aguerd against Chelsea could have been a turning point, potentially costing them vital points.
VAR also intervened in their March clash with Aston Villa, disallowing two goals, including a potential last-gasp winner. The decisions, particularly the handball call on Tomas Soucek, were agonizingly slow and left a sour taste for West Ham fans.
These incidents highlight the inconsistency of VAR and its potential to swing points in the Premier League. While some decisions might benefit West Ham, others, like the ones mentioned, can be momentum-killers and leave a sense of injustice.
Look, I’m all for fairness, but VAR seems to be sucking the life out of the beautiful game. Is it really worth the constant stoppages, the agonising replays, and the lingering doubts about every close call? Maybe it’s time to admit VAR isn’t the answer, and go back to a time when football was a bit more, well, fun