Gary Neville shares VAR room reaction to Nick Woltemade’s shove on Gabriel Magalhaes

The latest clash between Newcastle United and Arsenal has once again sparked debate over officiating.

Recent meetings between these two sides at St James’ Park have been marked by physical battles and plenty of focus on the referees, and Sunday night was no different.

Jarred Gillett and his VAR team made several calls that left Arsenal fans frustrated.

But there was one decision that, despite Mikel Arteta’s frustration, the referee got right.

VAR explains why Gabriel Magalhaes was not awarded a foul before Nick Woltemade’s goal

Arsenal were the better team in the first half at the St. James’ Park.

Eberechi Eze had two good chances saved by Nick Pope, and Leandro Trossard’s powerful left-footed shot hit the inside of the post.

The most significant point of contention arose when Arsenal were initially awarded a penalty after Viktor Gyokeres was fouled in the box by Pope. However, VAR subsequently overturned the decision.

Despite their control of the game, Newcastle went ahead through Nick Woltemade. But Gabriel Magalhaes claimed he had been pushed before the goal.

Replays showed that there was contact from Woltemade on Gabriel’s back, but VAR decided not to intervene.

During commentary on Sky Sports, Gary Neville shared what VAR said to support the referee’s original decision.

“A really clear line from VAR, saying: ‘A little touch in the back does not make Gabriel go down like he does’.

“I think they got that one right.”

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