What Mikel Arteta said after VAR denied Viktor Gyokeres penalty during Newcastle vs Arsenal
Mikel Arteta was not happy with one major decision during Arsenal’s dramatic late win at Newcastle.
Nick Woltemade’s first half header gave Newcastle the lead, but late goals from Mikel Merino and Gabriel gave Arsenal a crucial three points.
Woltemade also scored the winner against Wolves in the Toon’s last home league match, with the German making an impact up-front.
Arsenal have won for just the second times in six trips to St James’ Park, though Arteta will still point to one crucial decision not being given which could have impacted the final result.
Mikel Arteta speaks out on penalty decision
Arsenal were initially awarded a penalty at Newcastle early in the match when Viktor Gyokeres went down after Nick Pope was adjudged to have fouled the striker.
However, after looking at the incident again on the VAR monitor, referee Jarred Gillett overturned his on-field decision.
Speaking after the match Arteta said on the incident: “If it is not a clear and obvious error, VAR should not intervene. It is clear that VAR does not have to intervene because it is a penalty.”
Gillett has been involved in Arsenal controversy against Newcastle before at St James’ Park and Gunners fans were not happy when the appointment was made.
Penalty award was correct decision
As per BBC Sport [28 September], former Man City goalkeeper Joe Hart believes Arteta “can’t argue with the decision.”
“If Pope touches the ball, then it’s not a penalty – and he does touch it before he hits Gyokeres,” Hart said.
“If you break it down and see why it’s not been given, then you can’t argue with the decision.”
Pope went on to make two fine saves to deny Eberechi Eze and a Jurrien Timber header as he starred in goal, but he could do little to stop Merino and Gabriel snatching the three points away from Newcastle’s grasp.