Premier League Explains Controversial VAR Call on Aston Villa’s Disallowed Goal Against Bournemouth

McGinn’s first-half strike ruled out, sparking debate over boundary technology

The Premier League issued an official statement explaining the controversial disallowance of Aston Villa’s first-half goal in their recent match against Bournemouth. The incident, which saw John McGinn’s effort ruled out after Ollie Watkins reportedly kept the ball in play near the byline, stirred confusion among fans and pundits alike following a lengthy VAR review.

After Watkins’ cross found McGinn, who put the ball in the net, VAR ultimately determined the ball had fully crossed the line before the goal, resulting in a decision to disallow it. According to the Premier League match center, “The referee’s call of goal for Aston Villa was checked by the VAR. As there was factual evidence that the ball was out of play in the build-up to the goal, the VAR recommended that the goal was disallowed.”

This call prompted frustration from Villa supporters and even scrutiny from BBC’s Final Score analyst and former Arsenal player, Martin Keown, who called for enhanced boundary technology. “We need perimeter technology, not just goal-line technology,” Keown stated. “The ball looks like it is out, but the freeze-frame view isn’t conclusive enough. I hope they are using the right frame for these calls.”

McGinn, who had recently scored in Villa’s Champions League win over Bologna, was visibly disappointed. In that game, McGinn scored the opener before teammate Jhon Duran added a second, sealing a 2-0 victory. Against Bournemouth, however, Villa’s lineup was altered, with Watkins starting after being rested in Europe and Diego Carlos, Ian Maatsen, and Leon Bailey making way for Matty Cash, Lucas Digne, and Jacob Ramsey.

The incident has reignited discussion around VAR’s accuracy and the potential need for expanded technology in the Premier League, as boundary calls like these continue to prove divisive.

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