Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher acknowledged that the ruling to annul Kai Havertz’s late goal for Arsenal against Aston Villa was the correct call. Initially falling behind after seven minutes through John McGinn’s goal, Unai Emery’s team struggled to convert chances until Havertz’s potential equalizer.
However, Jarred Gillett blew the whistle for a handball immediately after the ball crossed the line. A VAR review upheld the original decision, denying Arsenal the equalizing goal. After the match, Arteta, who watched from the stands due to a previous yellow card, refrained from commenting on the incident.
While there has been much debate over the disallowed goal, there’s also been discussion about the incident involving Douglas Luiz’s challenge on Gabriel Jesus, which did not result in a penalty. Earlier in the day, Crystal Palace received a penalty for a similar action, leading to frustration over the apparent lack of consistency.
Despite opinions favoring Havertz’s goal standing, Gallagher insisted that the correct call was made, noting Matty Cash’s possible handball incident. He stated, “It clearly struck Cash’s arm, resulting in the goal, so according to the new law, that’s the outcome.” He further explained that the on-field referee noticed the infringement, leading to the goal being disallowed, which he deemed appropriate.
Regarding Cash’s handball, he clarified, “Because Havertz committed the offense for scoring the goal, that nullifies Matty Cash’s handball.” Gallagher concluded that it was the right decision, emphasizing that the referee spotted the violation on-field, a practice desired for more consistency and credibility in officiating.