London, England — The Premier League has clarified the decision to disallow Kai Havertz’s late goal for Arsenal against Aston Villa due to a handball.
Havertz appeared to secure a dramatic 87th-minute winner when Mikel Merino’s shot deflected off him into the net. However, after a VAR review, the goal was overturned, as the ball was ruled to have struck Havertz’s arm before crossing the line.
A statement from the Premier League’s Match Centre explained: “The Arsenal goal was awarded on-field. VAR established that the ball hit Havertz’s arm immediately before entering the goal and recommended disallowing it.”
Arsenal initially led 2-0 through Gabriel Martinelli and Havertz, but Villa equalized with second-half goals from Youri Tielemans and Ollie Watkins. The disallowed goal meant the Gunners had to settle for a frustrating 2-2 draw, leaving them unable to close the gap on league leaders Liverpool.
Villa forward Ollie Watkins commented on the decision, saying, “That’s what VAR is there for.” Meanwhile, Tielemans told BBC Sport, *“Handball is handball when it’s a goal. It is what it is.”
The result and controversial decision drew boos from Arsenal fans, with manager Mikel Arteta visibly dejected at the outcome.
By Enoch Odesola |January 19,2025
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