Kai Havertz’s goal for Arsenal against Chelsea was disallowed in the first half of a crucial top-flight match, and the Premier League has explained why. Havertz believed that he had given his old team the lead.
Declan Rice’s quick thinking at a free kick put Arsenal ahead by one goal. He managed to get the ball past Robert Sanchez, the custodian for Chelsea, and into the net’s corner. Referee Anthony Taylor awarded the goal.
Havertz even silenced his former employer’s supporters by putting his finger to his mouth in celebration. But VAR quickly stopped the German. He was judged to have been offside and the goal was subsequently disallowed because he had exploded just ahead of Levi Colwill before Rice’s pass was played.
The Premier League Match Centre X account released the following statement: “Havertz’s goal was originally awarded on-field. Havertz’s offside position was verified by VAR, who also suggested that the goal be disallowed.
In an effort to increase transparency, PGMOL chief Howard Webb activated the account at the beginning of the season. Fans can now learn why important VAR decisions were made by reading the explanations that were given.
After a string of disappointing performances, Arsenal was expecting to turn things around against Chelsea. In midweek, the Gunners lost to Inter Milan 1-0 in the Champions League. That outcome came after last weekend’s Premier League loss to Newcastle by the same score.
Since their 3-1 victory over Southampton on October 5, Mikel Arteta’s team has not won in the Premier League. Their progress has been hampered by a 2-2 tie with Liverpool and a 2-0 loss to Bournemouth.
However, Arsenal still has a great chance to win the league again in the upcoming months. Brighton overcame a deficit to win 2-1 on the south coast on Saturday, while Manchester City, who had been struggling for form, suffered an incredible fourth straight defeat.
After defeating Aston Villa 2-0 on Saturday, Liverpool now leads the Premier League by five points. With their title competitors dealing with injuries and inconsistent play, Arne Slot’s team is the only Big Six team to have had a completely successful start to the season.
But in a huge boost against Chelsea, Arteta was able to bring back Rice and Martin Odegaard. While Odegaard hasn’t played in the league since August because of an ankle injury, Rice is playing through a fractured toe.
