Premier League release statement on Newcastle vs Chelsea controversy after technology breaks down
Newcastle had an emphatic start against Chelsea as they quickly went 2-0 up at St. James’ Park on Sunday – but a goal controversy erupted as the technology failed to work properly.
Nick Woltemade overcame this terrible own goal against Sunderland last weekend to net twice in the opening 20 minutes against the Blues.
As a result, Eddie Howe is on track to overcome the pressure at Newcastle and improve the club’s chances of European qualification this season.
However, it could have easily been a different story in the first half, with VAR quick to take a look at Woltemade’s second goal.
Premier League confirm Nick Woltemade’s second goal was onside
Upon Woltemade firing Newcastle 2-0 in front, VAR was quick to halt any celebrations from the home fans as they checked the legitimacy of the goal.
This proved to take a while, which no doubt would have puzzled many supporters due to the addition of Semi-Automated Offside Technology in the Premier League.
However, the Premier League has now confirmed via X on 20 December that this was due to the technology not being available during the VAR check, and manual lines were used to assess the goal.
#NEWCHE – 20’
— Premier League Match Centre (@PLMatchCentre) December 20, 2025
The referee’s call of goal was checked and confirmed by VAR – with Woltemade in an onside position.
Due to technical issues, Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT) wasn’t available during the VAR check. The VAR was required to manually construct lines in… pic.twitter.com/PifR1Ols6a
Nevertheless, Woltemade’s goal was deemed onside, as the hosts went 2-0 up.
Newcastle vs Chelsea – Key stats at half-time
Many Newcastle fans will be pleased with the stats at half-time against Chelsea.
According to BBC Sport on 20 December, the Magpies have dominated, producing seven shots, five of which were on target, while also having a whopping 1.97 xG.
This will no doubt help Howe if Newcastle hang onto the result after fans were quick to get on the manager’s back after the Sunderland defeat.
In comparison, Chelsea seemingly provided no threat in front of goal, with just a tiny four shots, zero of which were on target.
| Half-time stats | Newcastle United | Chelsea |
| Possession | 49.5% | 50.5% |
| Shots | 7 | 4 |
| Shots on target | 5 | 0 |
| xG | 1.97 | 0.24 |
Therefore, Blues supporters will be hoping that Enzo Maresca has something up his sleeve in the second half to try and get a tune out of his players.
If not, Chelsea are on track for yet another defeat in the Premier League, damaging their hopes of Champions League qualification yet again.