The Premier League opener between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Man United on August 14, 2023, was marked by a contentious VAR decision that has sparked debates and discussions across the footballing world. Despite a valiant effort from Wolves, a crucial penalty call in stoppage time cast a shadow over their impressive performance.
Missed Opportunity for Wolves
The match at Old Trafford witnessed Wolverhampton Wanderers dominating the field with their attacking prowess. The Wolves managed a staggering 23 shots, including six on target, displaying their intent to challenge the home team and secure a favorable result. However, amidst the flurry of shots and determined play, a pivotal moment in stoppage time became the focal point of controversy.
The Onana-Kalajdzic Collision
In the dying moments of the game, Manchester United’s André Onana collided with Sasa Kalajdzic, a collision that sparked heated debate among players, coaches, and fans alike. Referee Simon Hooper did not award a penalty for the incident, and VAR Michael Salisbury reviewed the situation. Ultimately, VAR chose not to intervene, deeming it not a “clear and obvious error.”
O’Neil’s Outrage
Wolves’ manager, Gary O’Neil, was quick to voice his dissatisfaction with the VAR decision. O’Neil expressed his frustration, asserting that the challenge by Onana on Kalajdzic was a “blatant penalty” and a “clear and obvious error.” He revealed that Jonathan Moss, the Manager of the PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited), had privately admitted the mistake and issued an apology.
“I feel bad because he has come out honestly,” O’Neil stated, acknowledging Moss’s transparency. The manager’s conversation with Moss revealed the acknowledgment of a missed opportunity for Wolves, leaving O’Neil frustrated that despite being in the right, his team left without the result they deserved.
Contrasting Perspectives
While O’Neil vehemently disagreed with the VAR decision, Man United’s head coach, Erik ten Hag, presented a different interpretation. Ten Hag emphasized that Onana’s collision with Kalajdzic did not interfere with the action between the two players. He asserted that the initial touch of the ball preceded the collision and supported the VAR decision not to award a penalty.
The Impact and Aftermath
Despite the controversy surrounding the VAR decision, the match concluded with a lone goal from Raphaël Varane, securing a victory for Man United. The goal marked the beginning of the Premier League season on a positive note for Ten Hag’s side.
While the penalty controversy looms large, it is worth noting the impressive performance of Wolverhampton Wanderers. Their 23-shot tally, the second-highest against Man United at Old Trafford in two decades, showcases the team’s determination and attacking prowess.
Looking Ahead
As the footballing world dissects the contentious VAR decision, Wolverhampton Wanderers will undoubtedly continue to showcase their resilience and determination in the upcoming matches. The team’s ability to dominate play and create scoring opportunities serves as a promising sign for the season ahead. While the controversy may linger, the focus remains on the journey that lies ahead for both Wolves and Man United in the Premier League.
FAQs about man united vs wolves
- What was the controversial VAR decision in the Wolverhampton Wanderers vs. Manchester United match? The controversy stemmed from a collision between André Onana of Manchester United and Sasa Kalajdzic of Wolverhampton Wanderers, with the VAR decision opting not to award a penalty.
- Why did Wolverhampton Wanderers’ manager, Gary O’Neil, express dissatisfaction with the VAR decision? Gary O’Neil believed that the collision warranted a penalty, describing it as a “blatant penalty” and a “clear and obvious error.”
- What was Erik ten Hag’s perspective on the VAR decision? Erik ten Hag, the head coach of Manchester United, supported the VAR decision by emphasizing that the collision did not interfere with the initial touch of the ball.
- How did the match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester United conclude? The match concluded with a lone goal from Raphaël Varane, securing a victory for Manchester United.
- What was noteworthy about Wolverhampton Wanderers’ performance in the match? Wolverhampton Wanderers’ impressive 23-shot tally showcased their determination and attacking prowess, leaving a strong impression despite the VAR controversy.
