Understandably at times this season, VAR has come in for widespread criticism for its lack of consistency and its impact on the fan experience - among other issues.
And it appears that the leniency of the decision makers at Stockley Park in not awarding a penalty to Everton following what seemed to be a clear dragging of Theo Walcott’s shirt by Brighton’s Lewis Dunk is the latest to draw the ire of supporters.
A VAR check ruled that Walcott had not been impeded by the one-time England international, which many on Twitter quickly condemned as wide of the mark - stating that if the incident had occurred outside the box it would have undoubtedly been given as a foul by referee David Coote.
Here is a round-up of some of the reaction online:
Walcott was able to get a shot away, however, it seemed clear to those observing that his finish was undoubtedly impeded by Dunk’s actions.
The incident is likely to raise further questions surrounding the effectiveness of VAR and the debate surrounding what constitutes a ‘clear and obvious foul’.
Former England striker Michael Owen was amongst those who took to Twitter to condemn the decision that occurred during the first half of the game at Goodison Park.
Everton responded well to the VAR controversy and were the better side for the first half.
Richarlison scored to make it 1-0 to the Blues going into the break.
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