We have been cheated by the FFA’s response to the Video Assistant Referee malfunctioning, potentially costing the Newcastle Jets their first A-League championship since the 2007-08 season.
An issue with the Hawk-Eye system saw Kosta Barbarouses’ goal stand, even though three Victory players were offside.
Yes, it was early on in the match, but the goal was the deciding factor in Victory claiming their fourth A-League championship.
This is a disappointing way to end one of the most exciting A-League finals series we have seen. It was a shock for the most dominant team of the season, Sydney FC, to be knocked out in front of their home crowd last Saturday.
The FFA ruined what should’ve been a fantastic way to end a great season. For the Hawk-Eye to malfunction in such a pivotal match is ridiculous.
FFA need to let us know how the VAR was really used during the course of the season. The system has been called a failure by journalists and football experts, even those who have played in the A-League.
VAR will be a success if used properly. Unfortunately, FFA will have to admit that it was unsuccessful this year, and reshape their strategy if they are going to use it again in October.
I hope David Gallop comes forward this week to explain why the VAR really failed in the grand final, and why it led to some of the most ridiculous calls over the course of the season.
shirtpants
Roar Guru
1. Was it really off for the 60 seconds that the goal occurred? 2. How many times has it occurred this season? I dont believe out of all the minutes played this season that is the first time it happened. VAR needs a lot of work. It should have been having periodical reviews throughout the season. Or if this would cause confusion, it should have been limited to either a few leagues or just cup competitions.
Mike
Guest
Don't trust the FFA. Easier to blame technical malfunction than admit to human error.
Wayne
Roar Guru
I don't watch much Football, but was there really enough missed calls/errors that the VAR Needed to be introduced? Referee errors are a part of the game, same a defenders miskicking the ball, or strikers being a offside from a mistimed run.
Fadida
Guest
I hate the VAR with a passion. It slows the game down, it allows refs to take centre stage and make the TV signal before dramatically running over to the monitor, it mutes goal celebrations, lest the goal be disallowed. It hasn't even improved decision making. Are FFA to blame for the technical glitch though??? No. They surely have to can it for next season though.