The Premier League witnessed yet another flashpoint in the ongoing debate around VAR after a late penalty decision helped Newcastle United earn a dramatic 2-2 draw against Tottenham Hotspur at St James’ Park. Spurs manager Thomas Frank expressed deep frustration, calling the VAR intervention an “absolute mistake” following an 86th-minute spot-kick awarded to the home side.

A Chaotic Finale at St James’ Park

Tottenham appeared on the verge of securing a valuable away point with the match tied 1-1 heading into the final minutes. However, drama unfolded when VAR alerted referee Thomas Bramall to potential holding by Rodrigo Bentancur on Newcastle defender Dan Burn during a corner.

Although the on-field referee initially allowed play to continue, a review on the pitchside monitor resulted in a penalty—one that many believed should never have been awarded.

Anthony Gordon calmly converted the spot-kick, giving Newcastle a late 2-1 lead. But Spurs rescued a point thanks to Cristian Romero’s spectacular overhead kick in the 95th minute, earning Tottenham a 2-2 draw.

Thomas Frank: ‘Never a Penalty’

Spurs manager Thomas Frank did not hold back in his post-match analysis, criticizing the decision-making process and calling for greater consistency in VAR interventions.

“It was an absolute mistake from the VAR,” Frank said.
“The referee had it right on the pitch. For me, that is never a penalty. Even some from Newcastle didn’t think it was a penalty. We need consistency.”

Frank argued that incidents like the Bentancur-Burn tussle happen in nearly every Premier League match and do not typically merit VAR involvement unless the error is “clear and obvious.”

Newcastle’s Response: Howe Believes It Was Correct

Eddie Howe, in contrast, backed the decision after reviewing the footage:

“The big thing is the defender isn’t looking at the ball at all. He’s looking at Dan Burn. I think it’s probably the right call.”

The conflicting opinions reflect the ongoing debate regarding VAR interpretation—especially when it comes to physical battles inside the penalty area.

Why Was the Penalty Awarded? Understanding PGMOL Guidelines

The PGMOL evaluates several criteria when determining whether holding in the box warrants a penalty. According to the organization:

• If a player focuses solely on an opponent and not the ball, the action should be penalized.
• If both players are involved in equal, mutual holding, play should continue.
• If holding clearly restricts movement or ability to challenge for the ball, it is considered a foul.
• Non-footballing actions that hinder an opponent must also be penalized.

In this case, officials believed Bentancur’s attention was on Burn, not the ball.

However, many argue the incident reflected typical corner-box grappling, raising concerns about selective enforcement.

Pundits Slam the Decision and Demand Consistency

The moment quickly became one of the weekend’s biggest talking points, with experts across Sky Sports and BBC platforms criticizing the call.

Izzy Christiansen (BBC Radio 5 Live)

“If you’re giving a penalty for that, you’re giving a penalty every single game.”

Clinton Morrison (BBC Radio 5 Live)

“VAR should stay out of it. There’s no pulling of the shirt. It’s just physical defending.”

Jonathan Woodgate (BBC Radio 5 Live)

“Dan Burn climbed all over him. It’s like a heavyweight against a featherweight.”

Micah Richards (Sky Sports)

“Not looking at the ball fits the criteria, but the holding isn’t enough. Burn is simply too strong.”

Jamie Redknapp (Sky Sports)

“Burn doesn’t even appeal. If this is the threshold, fine—but we need consistency.”

Across the board, pundits agreed the incident did not meet the threshold of a “clear and obvious” error.

VAR Scrutiny Continues as Premier League Demands Grow

The controversial decision adds to the growing pressure on VAR and PGMOL to improve consistency and transparency. With managers, players, and fans increasingly frustrated, calls for reform continue to intensify.

For Spurs, the late penalty felt harsh—but Romero’s dramatic overhead kick secured at least a point. For Newcastle, Gordon’s cool finish offered relief after a tense match.

Yet the biggest talking point wasn’t the goals—it was once again VAR.