We Need VAR Now — Benitez After 10-Man Newcastle Lose To Wolves

We Need VAR Now — Benitez After 10-Man Newcastle Lose To Wolves

                              

Newcastle boss Rafael Benitez says the Premier League needs video assistant referees immediately after Wolves scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner against his 10-man side.

Matt Doherty headed home the rebound after Diogo Jota’s shot was pushed into his path in the 95th minute.

Ayoze Perez’s superb header had pulled Newcastle level after Jota gave Wolves the lead before the break at St James’ Park. Magpies defender DeAndre Yedlin was sent off by referee Mike Dean after 57 minutes – with the score at 1-1 – and Newcastle had a rejected penalty claim for a Willy Boly challenge on Perez.

“We need VAR now,” said Benitez. “In this game it would have changed everything. We were doing enough to control the game. How can you explain those decisions to all our fans?”

Jota was outside the Newcastle area when he was brought down, with Jamaal Lascelles tracking back.

“The ball was far away (from goal) and there were other men close enough that it wasn't a red card,” said Benitez.

“You can guarantee to me that the player in the corner of the box can score in the top corner every time? It cannot be a red card.”

VAR is set to be used in the Premier League next season, after clubs agreed in principle to their introduction. (BBC)