With Premier League clubs scrutinizing VAR, the ECHO examines Everton’s complex relationship with the system.
Everton and VAR have had a complicated relationship. The club has been involved in several significant flashpoints since the introduction of the process, with none more notable than the Rodri non-penalty award during Manchester City’s title chase at Goodison Park.
VAR has correctly ruled out important goals against Everton, such as Dan Burn’s strike for Newcastle United, which helped Everton secure a morale-boosting draw. However, Sean Dyche has frequently expressed frustration over decisions against the club, even though he supports VAR in principle. The club even held discussions with referees chief Howard Webb following a series of contentious calls.
As Premier League clubs prepare to vote on VAR’s future, let’s examine its most controversial interventions involving Everton.
Rodri Handball
One of the most significant VAR incidents was in March 2022 when Everton was denied a penalty against Manchester City. Neither referee Paul Tierney nor VAR Chris Kavanagh awarded a penalty when the ball struck Rodri’s arm. The decision prevented Everton from gaining a crucial result in their relegation fight and helped City secure the title that year. Mike Riley, then head of PGMOL, later apologized to Everton for the decision.
Jordan Ayew’s ‘Not Reckless Enough’ Lunge
Everton faced several questionable decisions as they fought for safety. One notable incident was Allan’s red card for a challenge on Allan Saint-Maximin, initially deemed a yellow card but upgraded by VAR. This decision saw Allan miss three crucial matches, which Everton lost. Other incidents included Jordan Ayew receiving only a yellow card for a reckless challenge on Anthony Gordon, and controversial calls against Everton in matches against Liverpool and Fulham.
Winter of Pain and Dressing Room Fury
During a tough winter under Frank Lampard, Everton felt a series of VAR decisions undermined their progress. Incidents included a penalty not given against Tottenham, a ruled-out goal for Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and contentious calls in matches against Manchester City and Fulham. The worst decision came in the FA Cup third round against Crystal Palace when Calvert-Lewin was shown a red card, later rescinded. These decisions left the team feeling they were being treated harshly by VAR.
Nottingham Forest Chaos After Penalty Shouts Refused
VAR’s use has been controversial, most recently in a game against Nottingham Forest. Forest claimed they should have received three penalties, but VAR awarded none. This resulted in a public statement from Forest and a misconduct charge by the FA. The game’s fallout became one of the most sensational VAR talking points, especially with Ashley Young involved in all three penalty calls and later mocking Forest on social media.
As Premier League clubs consider VAR’s future, Everton’s experiences highlight the system’s contentious impact on the club.