VAR expert clears up confusion around referee decision for John Stones' last-minute winner in Wolves vs Man City

Manchester City scored a controversial last-gasp winner away at Wolves, with the goal standing after a rare referee VAR decision.

City found themselves 1-0 down early on after Jorgen Strand Larsen opened the scoring before Josko Gvardiol levelled matters with a stunning strike.

The home side defended for their lives and looked like they were on course for a point until John Stones headed home in the 95th minute from a Phil Foden corner.

But Wolves boss Gary O'Neil immediately protested about the role Bernardo Silva had in the goal.

As he did all game, Silva was in an offside position and had been in the proximity of goalkeeper Jose Sa, giving a slight nudge before moving away as Stones powered the header past him.

John Stones wins it in the 95th minute! 💥 pic.twitter.com/VIvAPDeNGL

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) October 20, 2024

Although it was not clear at the time, the goal was actually disallowed on-field and a VAR check ensued.

Referee Chris Kavanagh was then sent to the pitchside monitor to observe the incident.

The decision was then reversed and he awarded the goal - feeling as though Silva had not interfered with play.

There was still mass confusion when Sky Sports shared a graphic of the rules but VAR expert Dale Johnson of ESPN cleared up the situation on X.

In a series of tweets, Johnson wrote: "To clear up some confusion from the TV coverage. John Stones' goal was disallowed for offside *on the field.* The VAR review was to overturn that and *allow* the goal. The referee has to make this decision at the monitor as it's a subjective call.

"Also, some other confusing information given on TV.

"Silva being in contact with Sa during the flight of the corner isn't relevant, as there no offside phase at this point.

"Any offside offence by Silva only begins at the point Stones heads the ball."

City returned to the top of the Premier League table with the late win, while Wolves remain at the foot of the table on a single point.