West Ham were denied a stoppage-time equaliser by the video assistant referee (VAR) as Arsenal clung on to a vital 1-0 win to close in on the Premier League title.
The Incident
Callum Wilson appeared to have earned West Ham a vital point in their fight against relegation when he lashed home following a goalmouth scramble from a corner delivered from the right. The striker's half-volley was blocked beyond the line by Declan Rice, clearly crossing, with the goal quickly awarded by referee Chris Kavanagh.
Arsenal, however, immediately appealed due to an incident involving goalkeeper David Raya and West Ham substitute Pablo. In a thicket of bodies in the six-yard box, Raya appeared to be grasped by the Brazilian as he attempted to claim the initial delivery into the box.
VAR Review
After a long deliberation of the available angles, VAR Darren England instructed referee Kavanagh to review the footage on the pitchside monitor. Following a discussion between the officials, Kavanagh chalked the goal off, awarding a free kick to the visiting team.
"After review, West Ham No 19 commits a foul on the goalkeeper," the referee said. "Final decision: direct free kick."
Match Impact
Soon after, he blew the final whistle on a potentially decisive day at both ends of the table, with Leandro Trossard's goal enough for Arsenal to remain in control of their own destiny. The decision left West Ham frustrated as they remain in the relegation battle, while Arsenal celebrated a crucial victory in the title race.
