'VAR is corrupt!' - Newcastle fans rage after decision overturned against Arsenal

Jacque Talbot

• 7 May 2023 17:26 BST
• 3 min read

Newcastle supporters took to social media to vent after a possible penalty decision was overturned in their game against Arsenal.

In the Premier League contest at St James’ Park, during the early stages of the game, Bruno Guimaraes struck a ball from just outside the box.

Inside the box was Jakub Kiwior and the ball appeared, initially at least, to hit the player’s hand.

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The referee pointed to the spot, as VAR reviewed the decision. The official was eventually asked to go over and check his pitch-side monitor and, upon reviewing the incident, overturned the penalty, with the ball looking to strike the leg of the Arsenal defender before his hand.

Just minutes later, attacker Martin Odegaard found the back of the net with a strike from outside the area, to put the Gunners ahead on the day.

Mad Magpies fans

It was further salt in the wounds for Eddie Howe’s men. In any case, Newcastle fans were not happy with the VAR ruling, and vented their frustration on social media.

Some even called VAR ‘corrupt’.

Var is corrupt.. he watched the ball to stop it

— Michael Clark (@Michaelc2481) May 7, 2023

Agenda against #NUFC WTF

— Corrupt EPL (@Giniesta10) May 7, 2023

It was a clear handball, VAR doing Liverpool some favours here

— Rasan ⚫️⚪️ (@RasanBA98) May 7, 2023

That happens down the other end 100% no overturn.

— AJ🤙😳 (@ytfcaj00) May 7, 2023

Robbery it's a robbery

— Tommy 🖤🤍 (@TommyAltSoBored) May 7, 2023

How the hell was that not a penalty

— STEVE (@Steve_nufc1) May 7, 2023