Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher has dropped a clear-cut verdict on VAR’s intervention over the penalty decision in Manchester United’s 1-1 draw with Burnley.
Manchester United broke the deadlock against Burnley at Old Trafford on Saturday in the second half after Antony produced a fine finish in a lovely solo effort.
However, Erik ten Hag’s men once again blew their advantage in a match after a reckless foul from United No 1 Andre Onana.
Casemiro’s clumsy headed clearance forced Andre Onana off the line and the United shot-stopper collided with Zeki Amdouni during his attempt to clear the ball.
VAR intervened and reviewed the challenge, with referee John Brooks then pointing to the spot-kick after Burnley were awarded a penalty.
Zeki Amdouni stepped up and beat Onana from the spot-kick to ensure that Vincent Kompany’s men sealed an important point against United.
United have only won once in their last five Premier League matches, with the Red Devils languishing in sixth place in the league table.
Gallagher on VAR and penalty decision in Man Utd draw
Manchester United’s top-four Premier League ambitions are over after the 1-1 scoreline against Burnley at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils have only four league matches remaining and can no longer leapfrog fourth-place Aston Villa in the race for Champions League football.
Speaking on Sky Sports’ Ref Watch, Dermot Gallagher believes that VAR made the right call after Andre Onana committed to his challenge on Zeki Amdouni.
The former Premier League referee insisted that VAR has learned from previous mistakes this season and made the right call against United on this occasion.
“There is a great learning process in this,” he said.
“Eight months down the line we see the same goalkeeper at the same end making the same challenge.
“We were told no penalty on the night. Penalty was given on Saturday.
“It’s a great advancement. Rather than try to be consistent, they have said, ‘We got that wrong and we are going to correct it.’”
Stephen Warnock added: “VAR has learned and Onana hasn’t.”
Ten Hag accepts Man Utd draw
Speaking after the match, Ten Hag admitted that his side made a “mistake” for Burnley’s all-important equaliser and they are “very frustrated by ourselves.”
The Dutchman has been under immense pressure this season after a lacklustre campaign, with the FA Cup trophy still offering one glimmering hope for Ten Hag.
“Of course, we have to look in the mirror,” Ten Hag said, as per Manchester United’s official website.
“We make a mistake for the 1-1. We’re very frustrated by ourselves.
“Also, with the referee as well but, first, we do have to look in the mirror.”
United will now return to action on 6th May with an away trip to Crystal Palace, with kick-off slated for 8pm UK time at Selhurst Park.