VAR was once again the focal point last night, as Everton and Newcastle United played out a relatively entertaining 0-0 draw in front of a moody Goodison Park.
This famous old stadium, which is enjoying its farewell tour in the Premier League this season, is always keen to react to what they see as perceived injustice.
And, when the standard of refereeing continues to be so poor, they are never short of ammunition.
Yesterday proved no different, with one Everton player, who did not even make the bench, still taking the time to go and confront Craig Pawson for his abysmal refereeing display.
Seamus Coleman confronts referee Craig Pawson
Taking to the Liverpool ECHO‘s live blog just after the match had concluded, journalist Tony Scott would highlight a particularly interesting detail that he noticed.
After all, it’s not often that players will go and confront a referee after a performance, but such was Pawson’s underperformance, Seamus Coleman felt it necessary.
Seamus Coleman 'having a word' with referee Craig Pawson at the final whistle.https://t.co/UtRlgaWfDi pic.twitter.com/sYWAY7V5uE
— Tony Scott (@Tony_Scott11) October 5, 2024
The update read: ‘Seamus Coleman appeared to have a word with Craig Pawson as he made his way off the pitch. Sean Dyche and his Everton side will no doubt feel hard done to by some of the decisions this evening. More boos for Anthony Gordon from home fans as well.’
This comes after fans were not only aggrieved at the awarding of Newcastle United’s penalty, left hopelessly in the dark about why it was given, before then seeing frustrations boil over when Dominic Calvert-Lewin was inexplicably snubbed the same chance from 12 yards despite Dan Burns clearly impeding his opportunity to tap in from close range.
Everton once again on the wrong end of VAR controversy
This is not the first time that the Toffees have been on the end of VAR controversy, nor will it be the last.
After all, it’s no coincidence that last campaign they were the last side to be awarded a penalty all season, with March marking their first spot kick.
For comparison, Chelsea finished that term having been awarded 12, and Liverpool a further nine.
This season could easily go the same way as well, having already seen one strong shout overturned against Brighton and Hove Albion after the referee could clearly not see the VAR screen.
Whenever this tumultuous technology is called upon, controversy is always never far behind.
And, when it occurs with Everton, it’s met with immense frustration and anger too, from fans and Everton manager Sean Dyche alike.
Last night was no different.
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