When Brighton pressed for an equalizer against Chelsea on Sunday, an obscure VAR regulation denied the Seagulls a late corner, causing frustration among Brighton’s players and fans.
At Stamford Bridge, Chelsea clinched a 3-2 victory, largely due to Enzo Fernandez’s two-goal performance. However, Joao Pedro’s stoppage-time goal narrowed the lead, and referee Craig Pawson added tension by seemingly awarding Brighton a penalty.
After a VAR review, Pawson checked the screen and concluded that Levi Colwill, a former loan player from Brighton, wasn’t responsible for handball as the ball struck his face before deflecting out for a corner.
According to VAR regulations, play doesn’t resume from the point of interruption; instead, it restarts with a drop ball following a reversed VAR decision.
Brighton’s players were visibly upset because they were denied an opportunity to try for an equalizer from the set piece.
Pawson correctly adhered to the rules in this instance, but some individuals criticized the situation as “corruption” online.
One fan expressed frustration on X (previously Twitter): “WHAT ARE YOU DOING!!!!???? ‘VAR (WRONGLY) SUGGESTS HANDBALL ON-FIELD REVIEW.’ Not given (alright), yet the ball found its way to our corner! But with a drop ball, the referee starts over! ‘Yet another absolute stunner!'”
Another user explained the situation for the benefit of football fans less familiar with these rules: “Unfortunately, that is the current law. A drop ball to the keeper will occur from any penalty that VAR reverses.”
Another comment read: ‘We didn’t even get a corner, what corruption is this?’
On the contrary, some expressed understanding for Pawson’s interpretation of the rule, saying: “The referee made the correct call.” They advised Brighton supporters to accept the decision.
At Stamford Bridge, goals from Levi Colwill and Enzo Fernandez secured a two-goal lead for Chelsea in the first half.
Despite a fantastic curling goal by Brighton’s Facundo Buonanotte, making it 2-1, Chelsea’s captain Conor Gallagher received a second yellow card and was sent off.
Fernandez extended Chelsea’s lead to 3-1 from the penalty spot in the 65th minute, but Joao Pedro’s 92nd-minute goal set up a thrilling finale.
Ultimately, Brighton couldn’t secure a third goal and left London without any points.
Brighton’s upcoming three home games are against Burnley and Brentford in the league, followed by their final Europa League group match against Marseille.
