Wolverhampton Wanderers have experienced a notable imbalance in Video Assistant Referee (VAR) decisions, with 20 more calls being overturned against them than in their favor since the technology’s introduction to the Premier League. This places Wolves as the most disadvantaged team by VAR, according to ESPN data. West Ham follows in second place with seven additional unfavorable decisions. Among the teams consistently in the top flight since VAR’s inception in the 2019/20 season, Brighton has benefited from nine additional favorable rulings, and Newcastle has six. Alongside Wolves and the Hammers, Tottenham and Arsenal from north London have also faced a significant number of decisions going against them.
This disparity was exacerbated when a John Stones goal, initially disallowed for offside in the 95th minute, was permitted after video review. In reaction to this contentious decision, Wolves’ manager, Gary O’Neil, expressed his confusion and suggested a possible unconscious bias among referees. Consequently, The Football Association sought O’Neil’s viewpoint on his comments.
Gary O’Neil said, “There’s no chance people are purposely against Wolves – if we ever get to that, then the game’s in a bad place. But is there something in the subconscious around decision-making? Without even knowing it, are you more likely to give it to Manchester City than Wolves? Referees are human, and Manchester City scoring a last-minute winner is a big thing, so maybe there’s something subconsciously that you’re less likely to get those decisions. It was similar to a goal [Wolves had disallowed] against West Ham last season. We sent an image to referees showing with proof that the West Ham keeper could see the ball, but the reason given was the player was in close proximity. The same argument could be made here but we just have to accept it. I would rather not discuss it because it will still sound like I am making excuses. Whatever decision they make, I respect. We don’t want to cross that line, but it did feel like a harsh one. I am proud of the players though. An unbelievable effort and we gave ourselves a great chance. I am gutted for the players that we had to leave with nothing.”
**Premier League VAR Decisions Overturned Net Score:**
– Brighton: +9
– Newcastle: +6
– Man City: +5
– Aston Villa: +3
– Crystal Palace: +3
– Liverpool: +3
– Man United: +3
– Chelsea: +2
– Everton: +1
– Tottenham: -3
– Arsenal: -6
– West Ham: -7
– Wolves: -20
This data underscores the significant impact of VAR decisions on Wolverhampton Wanderers, highlighting the challenges faced by the club regarding the technology’s application.
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