Pro Ref blames ‘tunnel vision’ for Manchester derby VAR error
Howard Webb says VAR focused on Erling Haaland’s position while failing to assess Enzo Fernandez’s involvement in Manchester City’s winning goal.
Professional Game Match Officials Limited chief Howard Webb has described “tunnel vision” as the cause of a VAR error that wrongly allowed Manchester City’s winning goal in Sunday’s 1-0 Manchester derby against Manchester United.
Erling Haaland’s second-half strike was initially ruled offside before a VAR review overturned the decision. Pro Ref later acknowledged the goal should not have been awarded, saying Haaland was onside but teammate Enzo Fernandez’s involvement from an offside position was not properly assessed.
Webb said the review established Haaland’s position but failed to fully evaluate Fernandez’s influence on the play. The VAR focused on whether Fernandez had touched the ball, rather than considering other elements of possible offside interference.
Pro Ref has contacted Manchester United to acknowledge the error. Webb said VAR officials Matt Donohue and assistant VAR Blake Antrobus would not officiate again until after the international break.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick criticised the decision after his side’s home defeat. The incident has added to continuing controversy around VAR, which is intended to help correct clear and obvious errors but remains contentious among players, former players and football commentators.
