**Newcastle United v Arsenal: VAR Overturns Gunners’ Penalty After Pope–Gyökeres Incident**
VAR took centre stage at St James’ Park as Arsenal were denied a first-half penalty against Newcastle United.
Referee Jarred Gillett initially pointed to the spot after Nick Pope appeared to foul Viktor Gyökeres, who had latched onto a loose backpass from Jacob Murphy. But following a lengthy VAR review led by Darren England, Gillett was advised to check the pitchside monitor.
The review focused on whether Pope had managed to touch the ball before colliding with the Swedish striker. After studying replays, Gillett overturned his original decision, announcing to the crowd: *“After review, the Newcastle goalkeeper plays the ball and there is no foul.”* Play resumed with a drop ball to the Magpies, sparking huge cheers from the home support.
Gillett also explained his decision to Arsenal’s Declan Rice, confirming that Pope had made contact with the ball first. On commentary duty for Sky Sports, Gary Neville admitted he was “torn” over the call, suggesting Gyökeres had kicked the ball against Pope’s foot before going down: *“Pope has still blocked him, but the referee is debating it with Stockley Park.”*
The Premier League later clarified the decision on its Match Centre feed, posting: *“#NEWARS – 14’ VAR OVERTURN. Referee announcement: ‘After review, the Newcastle goalkeeper plays the ball and there is no foul. The final decision is drop ball.’”*
Ahead of the match, Joelinton had predicted a physical contest between the sides, and the midfielder’s words proved accurate as the game developed into a battle of intensity. Pope, meanwhile, redeemed himself after the early scare with a series of key saves to keep Arsenal at bay.
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