Michael Oliver Changes Penalty Decision After Looking At Screen In Controversial VAR Call

Aston Villa were denied a stoppage time penalty against Brighton after Michael Oliver overturned his original decision.

The official pointed to the spot after Trezeguet went down theatrically under the challenge of Solly March in the 94th minute and it looked like Villa would have the chance to equalise for the second time in the game.

It was an incredibly tough one to call given March had touched the ball but also followed through afterwards but Oliver changed his decision after looking at a replay of the incident on the pitchside monitor.

Referees are being encouraged to do so by VAR officials in the current campaign yet there were mixed feelings as to whether it was a clear and obvious error.

Brighton, who saw right wing-back Tariq Lamptey sent off for two bookings, would then hold on for a second win of the season at Villa Park, with March's stunning right-footed curler in the second half proving to be the winning goal.

Danny Welbeck had opened the scoring with his first goal for the Seagulls in the first half, before Ezri Konsa levelled matters early in the second half.

But March proved to be the hero and avoided being the villain late on thanks to Oliver's reversal.

Topics: Football News, Michael Oliver, Aston Villa, Football, Premier League, VAR, Brighton

Josh Lawless

Josh is a sports journalist who specialises in football and wrestling. He has been published by Curzon Ashton FC, Late Tackle, Manchester City FC, The Mirror, Read Man City and Manchester Evening News. He provides coverage of professional wrestling and has interviewed some of the biggest names in the field - including the first UK interview with The Hardy Boyz after their return to WWE. He has never sported a pair of Lonsdale Slip-ons, contrary to reports.

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