Qudus SalihuThe Premier League has released the “eye-opening” VAR audio regarding Joe Willock’s disallowed goal during Newcastle United’s high-stakes clash with Tottenham Hotspur. The incident, which occurred during the midweek round of fixtures, saw Willock fire the Magpies into a momentary lead, only for the strike to be chalked off following a protracted review that has once again placed the PGMOL under intense scrutiny.
The newly released audio captures the high-pressure environment inside the VAR hub as officials grappled with a “marginal” offside call. While the on-field decision was originally a goal, the VAR team can be heard meticulously reviewing the semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) data. The conversation reveals a moment of hesitation as the lead VAR official notes that Willock’s forehead was “ever so fractionally” beyond the last Spurs defender when the through ball was played.
The audio confirms that the decision came down to a matter of inches—specifically Willock’s positioning relative to Spurs’ defender Micky van de Ven. Unlike previous VAR controversies, the audio shows a more streamlined communication process, though Newcastle fans have labeled the decision “harsh” given the momentum of the game. Referee Stuart Attwell can be heard asking for confirmation on the “start point” of the pass, as the movement was incredibly fluid.
The release has done little to calm the fury of the supporters. Fans at the Stadium of Light have argued that such “very, very slight” decisions are sucking the joy out of the sport. Pundits have noted that while the technology may be accurate, the three-minute delay to reach a conclusion significantly impacted the game’s rhythm. Fortunately for Newcastle, the disappointment was short-lived as they eventually found a legitimate breakthrough later in the match. However, the “eye-opening” nature of this audio highlights the ongoing tension between perfect technological accuracy and the human soul of the Premier League. As Spurs continue to fight through a difficult run of form, they will certainly view this VAR intervention as a vital lifeline.
Rabiu Aminu
Qudus Salihu