The Premier League have confirmed why Erling Haaland saw his stoppage-time goal against Tottenham disallowed.
After breaking the deadlock in the 12th minute, Haaland through he had wrapped up all three points for Man City late on as he bundled his way through before slotting the ball past Guglielmo Vicario.
However, his celebrations were cut short when the goal was ruled out by the referee, Jarred Gillett, for an apparent handball in the build-up.
Of course, the decision was checked by VAR as Haaland was adjudged to have handled the ball as he shifted his body away from Archie Gray and Kevin Danso.
VAR took their time over the incident as a second incident was spotted where Haaland may have touched the ball with his arm as he tried to control the ball and chest it down to get the shot off.
Ultimately, after a lengthy delay, it was decided that the decision to disallow Haaland’s goal stood and the Premier League’s Match Centre have since confirmed there was was no conclusive evidence to overturn the on-field decision.
A statement read: “The referee’s call of no goal for a handball by Haaland was checked and confirmed by VAR – with no conclusive evidence to overturn the on-field decision.”
The decision could have resulted in further controversy moments later as Spurs raced up the other end and went agonisingly close to an equaliser when Pape Matar Sarr headed over the from close range.
In the end, Haaland’s strike that did stand was the difference between the two sides, though the striker, who now trails Mohamed Salah by five goals in the Golden Boot race, delivered his verdict on the decision afterwards.
Speaking to TNT Sports, he said: "I think it's the wrong decision clearly. It's more of a penalty, but because he gave the decision on the pitch, I think that's a bit why he stood with the decision.
“But I never think that should be disallowed..”
