Howard Webb offers explanation for disallowed goal in Aston Villa vs Arsenal clash

The recent disallowed goal involving Kai Havertz during Arsenal’s clash with Aston Villa has prompted a detailed explanation from former referee Howard Webb.

In the Match Officials: Mic’d Up episode on Sky Sports, Webb clarified the situation, addressing the frustration of Arsenal fans and shedding light on the decision-making process.

Havertz’s late equalizer was disallowed due to handball, a decision that left the German midfielder visibly upset. Webb emphasized that, according to the law, any contact with an attacker’s hand or arm, even accidental, leading to an immediate goal must be penalized. In this case, the referee, Jarred Gillett, correctly penalized the situation as required by the law.

Webb highlighted the distinction between an attacker and a defender in such scenarios. While Matty Cash’s accidental contact with the ball did not lead to a penalty as he didn’t commit a different offense, Havertz’s unintentional touch resulted in the disallowed goal.

The former referee explained that the law, in place for about five years, deems goals scored off the arm as unfair. He acknowledged that the laws are subject to review but emphasized that, in this circumstance, the referee made the correct decision.

Webb clarified the role of VAR as a “safety net” for clear errors, reinforcing that it is not there to referee the game but to intervene in case of mistakes. He commended referee Jarred Gillett for making a positive, accurate on-field call.

While controversies around VAR decisions persist, insights by Webb  into the specific ruling provided clarity on the application of the handball law in the context of the disallowed goal during the Arsenal vs. Aston Villa match.

Meanwhile, after completing their UEFA Champions League group stage run with a 1-1 draw vs PSV in Holland on Tuesday night, Arsenal will this weekend host Brighton at the Emirates Stadium, seeking a win to keep their title chase on the swing.