VAR was at the centre of controversy once again during Crystal Palace’s clash with Everton, as Jefferson Lerma’s goal was disallowed for the home side
The Premier League has explained Jefferson Lerma’s disallowed goal for Crystal Palace against Everton by referencing the lack of ‘conclusive VAR evidence’ from corner camera angles.
Despite Lerma’s celebration, the referee nullified the goal on account of the ball allegedly crossing the line, a decision upheld by the dreaded VAR due to inconclusive footage at Selhurst Park. Consequently, the original decision stood, reports the Mirror.
The official statement clarified: “VAR checked and confirmed the referee’s call of no goal due to the ball being out of play, with no conclusive evidence that the on-field decision was incorrect.”Fans voiced their dismay online over the disallowed goal. One fan fumed: “No way these are the only camera angles for VAR for this Lerma goal. Wow. This is absolutely awful and needs changing without a doubt.”
Compounding fan frustrations, another stated: “That Lerma goal being ruled out is a joke. From the (terrible) angles shown, I cannot see how that ball went out of play. What is the point of VAR in that instance if there is no proper angle to verify?”
A third supporter lamented, highlighting the lack of clarity and impact on the game: “What a joke no clear and obvious error but not clear if whole ball had gone out. What difference would it make anyhow. That’s a Lerma goal end of.”Despite numerous opportunities to take the lead in their match against Everton, Palace were thwarted by England’s number one, Jordan Pickford. Ismaila Sarr also came close, rattling the crossbar with a powerful strike.Everton capitalised late in the first half, with Beto maintaining his impressive form to break the deadlock. Carlos Alcaraz intercepted a poor throw from Tyrique Mitchell intended for Lerma, setting up Beto who bagged his fourth Premier League goal in three matches.
However, after another long VAR check, Palace equalised after the interval thanks to in-form Jean-Philippe Mateta.