Newcastle United vs Manchester City: Premier League Issues Statement on VAR Controversy for Barnes’ Winning Goal
Newcastle United secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Manchester City at St James’ Park thanks to a second-half brace from Harvey Barnes.
After a goalless first half in which the Magpies missed several clear opportunities, Barnes put Newcastle ahead in the 63rd minute.
Seven minutes later, he scored again, ultimately sealing the win after eight minutes of added time, delighting the home fans.
However, the second goal sparked significant debate and required a lengthy VAR review. Officials scrutinized whether Bruno Guimarães was offside when his header hit the crossbar and whether Gianluigi Donnarumma had been fouled. After careful review, referee Sam Barrott awarded the goal. The Premier League confirmed the decision on X, explaining: “#NEWMCI – 70’ The referee’s call of goal was checked and confirmed by VAR – with both Guimarães and Barnes in onside positions in the build-up. The VAR also checked and confirmed the referee’s call of no foul on Donnarumma prior to the goal.”
Manchester City defender Ruben Dias expressed his frustration with the decision, saying he felt VAR had been inconsistent. “I didn’t even see it live, but from the review, Barnes is pushing him away from the goal,” Dias said. “We’re very strict with certain contacts, but in cases like this with the goalkeeper, they allow it. If that’s the rule, fine—but it should be applied consistently.”
Dias also highlighted other controversial moments in the match, including a potential first-half penalty after Fabian Schar’s tackle on Phil Foden, but said he would not dwell on them. “Of all the decisions, the one we need to make sense of is the second goal,” he told Sky Sports.
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