Manchester Derby: English Refereeing Body Faults VAR Decision To Allow Haaland’s Goal Stand

Refereeing governing body Pro Ref has admitted the decision to let Erling Haaland’s Manchester derby-winning goal stand was a mistake.

Haaland’s second-half strike proved decisive as Manchester City beat local rivals Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford – despite playing more than hour with ten men after Phil Foden was sent off for kicking out at Bruno Fernandes.

The goal was initially not given for offside before eventually being awarded after a lengthy VAR check that concluded Haaland had been played onside by the foot of Man United defender Patrick Dorgu.

However, Enzo Fernandez appeared to be offside and interfering with play as the ball travelled across the box to Haaland.

Now according to talkSPORT, Pro Ref has admitted on-field referee Michael Oliver should have been instructed to review the incident.

A statement read: “Following the incident in the 60th minute of Sunday’s Premier League fixture between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford, we can provide clarification regarding Erling Haaland’s awarded goal.

“The on-field decision was offside against Erling Haaland – that was checked by VAR and he was found to be in an onside position.

“In the same attack, it was established that Enzo Fernandez did not play the ball and therefore that makes any offside offence subjective, however, on this occasion, the VAR did not recognise the likely impact of his position and should have recommended an on-field review.

“Contact has been made with Manchester United this evening to acknowledge what we deem is an error of judgement. A review of the incident will take place.”