VAR Chaos: Newcastle Denied Stonewall Penalty Against Arsenal

VAR Chaos: Newcastle Denied Stonewall Penalty Against Arsenal.

Controversy erupted at St. James’ Park as Newcastle United were denied what many fans and pundits described as a “stonewall penalty” in their Premier League clash with Arsenal.

In the second half, Nick Pope appeared to be fouled inside the box, with replays showing clear contact that looked to justify a spot-kick. However, to Newcastle’s shock, the referee waved play on after a brief VAR review — a decision that immediately sparked outrage among supporters.

The Toon Army were left furious, chanting in disbelief as the incident replayed on the big screen

 Controversy at St. James’ Park: Arsenal Denied Clear Penalty After Nick Pope Foul on Gyökeres

Arsenal were left furious after a dramatic refereeing controversy overshadowed their clash with Newcastle United at St. James’ Park.

Midway through the second half, Viktor Gyökeres appeared to be brought down inside the box by Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope. From replays, it looked a clear penalty — Pope caught the striker before making any contact with the ball.

To Arsenal’s disbelief, however, VAR intervened only for the on-field referee to wave play on after what many fans described as a “fake VAR check.”

Supporters took to social media to vent their anger, branding the decision “a cheat in favour of Newcastle.” Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was visibly furious on the touchline, demanding answers from the officials as his side were denied a golden chance to take the lead.

The incident has sparked heated debate across the Premier League, with pundits calling for more transparency in VAR decisions.

For Arsenal, it was a pivotal moment that could shape their title race. For Newcastle, it was a huge reprieve in a fiercely contested match.