Manchester United was leading 2-0 at the time, and Wolves didn’t appear to be able to score past a composed United defence. However, everything changed when Pedro Neto struck the deck after Casemiro made the most delicate touch, causing the referee to signal the spot.
Neto was penalised for going into the air after making the smallest possible contact, yet it was obvious that he was searching for it.
After a review by VAR, they affirmed the penalty despite the absurd ruling. As a result, United’s night became even more difficult, but Kobbie Mainoo’s last-minute goal rescued the day.
Rio Ferdinand gave his assessment of the call following the game.
Rio Ferdinand reacts to poor VAR decision
Speaking on TNT Sports following the 4-3 win for United on Thursday night, Ferdinand couldn’t hold back his scathing review of VAR.
“I was baffled last night with the penalty that was given [Liverpool vs Chelsea]. and now this one today when there was minimal contact is the same.
“I just can’t believe it when you’re in a position where you can slow things down, examine them, and tear them down. Either VAR needs to examine itself, or we need to examine those who perform VAR. Simply said, we’re not doing it correctly.
He is perfectly correct, and it’s troubling that these kinds of choices are still made so frequently. Either things need to change for the better, or they should be eliminated completely.
Though VAR is bad, Manchester United’s problems are entirely their own.
Even had Wolves’ contentious penalty kick been successful, United would have been well out of reach prior to the kick.
Erik ten Hag needs his team to play with more ruthlessness and to close out games when they are winning.
We need to avoid giving teams the chance to get back into games as so often this season it’s cost us dearly and will continue to do so.
That being said, VAR needs to sort itself out before it destroys football.
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