The Premier League has confirmed that “technical issues” with the semi-automatic offside system led to a lengthy VAR check before Newcastle United’s Nick Woltemade’s second goal against Chelsea FC was finally awarded.
Woltemade, who scored an own goal in Newcastle’s defeat to rivals Sunderland last weekend went from zero to hero in a stunning first half display at St James’ Park, provided the finishing touch to Anthony Gordon’s excellent inswinging cross.
The German striker timed his run to perfection as the Chelsea defence failed to push up in time, with a deft touch beating goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.
But, to the frustration of the Newcastle supporters, there a long VAR check before the goal was given. As the Premier League confirmed, the semi-automatic offside system was down during the check – which left VAR Peter Bankes and assistant VAR Eddie Smart having to draw the offside lines manually.
A statement on the Premier League Match Centre explained: “The referee’s call of goal was checked and confirmed by VAR – with Woltemade in an onside position.
“Due to technical issues, Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT) wasn’t available during the VAR check. The VAR was required to manually construct lines in determining this decision.”
Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SOAT), which was used in the 2022 World Cup and has been operational in the Champions League for several years, made its debut in English football in the FA Cup last season, before it was introduced to the Premier League in April.
SAOT has been designed to provide a more efficient and accurate placing of the offside line, based on a picture generated by player tracking and 30 in-stadium cameras. The Premier League created their own technology with the PGMOL and provider Genius Sports.
