Webb Defends VAR Disallowance of West Ham Goal vs Arsenal

Howard Webb, chief refereeing officer for the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), defended the decision to disallow a late West Ham equalizer against Arsenal in their 1-0 Premier League victory at the London Stadium on Sunday, calling the foul on goalkeeper David Raya "categorically" correct.

Leandro Trossard's deflected strike in the 83rd minute gave Arsenal the lead and restored their five-point advantage at the top of the table. Deep into stoppage time, West Ham substitute Callum Wilson bundled the ball over the line from a corner, prompting wild celebrations among the home crowd. Referee Chris Kavanagh initially awarded the goal, but video assistant referee Darren England prompted a review after identifying a foul by West Ham substitute Pablo Felipe, who extended his left arm across Raya's chest and grabbed the goalkeeper's arm during the buildup.

The on-pitch review lasted four minutes and 17 seconds. Kavanagh studied multiple angles before overturning his decision, preserving Arsenal's lead and allowing Mikel Arteta's side to secure three vital points in their pursuit of a first league title in 22 years. West Ham, now in the relegation zone with two matches...