Manchester United’s match with Wolves was surrounded by controversy as VAR took centre stage in the Premier League once again.
The Red Devils travelled to Molineux on Monday night looking to earn back-to-back wins after a 4-0 victory over Chelsea on the opening weekend of the season.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men hadn’t won any of the their past three meetings with Nuno Espirito Santo’s side after two defeats and a draw in all competitions last season.
But they looked on course for victory when Anthony Martial put the visitors ahead with a excellent finish.
The Frenchman latched onto a Marcus Rashford pass which looked to be intended for Luke Shaw before firing into the roof of the net.
But Wolves continued to threaten and got on level terms ten minutes after the break when a short corner routine found its way to Ruben Neves just outside the box.
The midfielder needed no second invitation before curling a perfectly-placed shot into the top corner, leaving David de Gea with no chance.
However, it looked for a moment as though the Portuguese playmaker’s sensational strike might get chalked off when VAR checked for a potential offside in the build-up.
Replays suggested that Joao Moutinho, who teed-up his compatriot, was in an offside position when his initial short corner was returned to him by a team-mate.
The goal was eventually upheld after a long check, leaving the Wolves faithful feeling relieved – but also furious that the joy of the moment was taken away from them by VAR.
Chants of “F*** VAR” were sang loud and clear by fans of both teams following the incident.
And their fury was also felt on social media.
One fan wrote: “Pretty sure VAR bottled it there with it’s pathetic ruler line in looking to cancel out that marvellous Ruben Neves strike with a ridiculous offside call.”
Another added: “Said it from the start – VAR will take the passion out of the game.”
And another said: “VAR ruined wolves celebrations big time.”
