Arsenal manager Renee Slegers has called for the introduction of video assistant referees (VAR) in the Women’s Super League (WSL) following her side’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea Women at the Emirates Stadium. Despite the late heroics of Alessia Russo, who scored in the 87th minute to rescue a point, Slegers expressed frustration over two disallowed Arsenal goals that she felt were incorrectly ruled out.

Controversial Decisions Mar Arsenal Performance

The first disputed decision came eight minutes into the second half when Stina Blackstenius appeared to score with a powerful finish from a corner, seemingly canceling out Alyssa Thompson’s opener for Chelsea. However, referee Melissa Burgin ruled the goal out for handball, even though replays clearly showed the ball struck Blackstenius’ thigh.

Later in the match, Frida Maanum had a potential 90th-minute winner disallowed for offside, with initial replays offering no clear confirmation. Both decisions sparked widespread debate among fans and pundits. Former England international Izzy Christiansen, commenting on Sky Sports, described them as “abysmal” and suggested Arsenal had been “robbed” of a deserved victory.

Slegers Advocates for VAR in the WSL

Slegers praised referees for their difficult job but emphasized that technology could provide much-needed justice in the top tier of women’s football.

“A lot of respect for referees because it’s not easy. We’re looking at video. If you ask me, we need justice and that’s why I think VAR and technology can help. There’s more and more at stake in the WSL, and we have to look at how we grow the game in all aspects,” she said.

Currently, VAR is used only in the later stages of the Women’s FA Cup and in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, but there are no plans to implement it in the WSL as yet.

Title Hopes and the Impact of Disallowed Goals

The draw leaves Arsenal five points behind Chelsea, who remain unbeaten in 33 WSL games, equalling the league record. The match was seen as a crucial opportunity for Arsenal to challenge for their first league title since 2019, and the disallowed goals have cast a shadow over their aspirations.

Christiansen added:

“Arsenal put themselves in a position in that second half that showed signs of a team hungry to get back into the game. They scored two goals that have been disallowed. That game should have finished 3-1 to Arsenal. The officials have had a huge impact on their title hopes.”

Chelsea Maintain Composure Despite Dropped Points

Despite the controversy, Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor remained composed and supportive of her players. Chelsea rode their luck to preserve their unbeaten streak and stay in control of the league.

“Having a draw is not a bad result. We want to win every game. I understand this result is not the one we wanted, but we are early in the season, and we are still in control and in a really good place,” Bompastor said.

Chelsea dominated the early stages of the match, hitting the post and creating multiple chances, but Arsenal’s resilience kept them in contention. With Manchester City challenging strongly under Andree Jeglertz, Chelsea could potentially lose their top position depending on results this weekend.

Looking Ahead

Arsenal must regroup quickly if they are to remain in contention for the WSL title and secure a spot in the UEFA Women’s Champions League next season. Meanwhile, Chelsea will aim to consolidate their lead and maintain their record-breaking unbeaten run.