Football lawmakers to discuss grappling at corners after controversial call in Arsenal vs West Ham

Football lawmakers to discuss grappling at corners after controversial call in Arsenal vs West Ham

Football’s lawmakers are set to discuss grappling and holding inside the penalty area after a dramatic VAR decision involving Arsenal and West Ham United.

According to The Telegraph, the Hammers have expressed their disappointment over what they believe to be the “biggest VAR call in Premier League history”.

The controversy followed West Ham’s late disallowed goal against Arsenal at the London Stadium, a decision that had a major impact on both the relegation battle and the title race.

West Ham believed they had rescued a point when Callum Wilson scored deep into stoppage time.

However, the goal was eventually ruled out after VAR reviewed an incident involving striker Pablo Felipe and Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.

On-field referee Chris Kavanagh spent more than four minutes reviewing the footage before deciding a foul had taken place.

The lengthy review frustrated many inside the stadium and increased concerns about how grappling and holding are being judged during set-pieces.

West Ham officials were infuriated by what they considered another example of inconsistent officiating.

The club are now seeking a detailed explanation from Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO), while also hoping to hear the conversation between the referee and VAR official Darren England.