Nottingham Forest have posted an official statement condemning the VAR controversy that occurred during their 2-0 loss to Everton on Sunday.
Dwight McNeil and Idrissa Gana Gueye’s long rang finishes gave Sean Dyche’s side a vital three points. The result moves the Toffees’ five points clear of the bottom three while holding an all-important game in hand.
However, the result doesn’t tell the whole story. Forest were adamant they should’ve been awarded three penalties during the 90 minutes.
Ashley Young was involved on all three occasions in what was an eventful afternoon for the ageing fullback.
The first incident occurred when the former Aston Villa man appeared to kick Gio Reyna. The American went to ground; however, after a VAR check, no penalty was awarded.
Forest also felt Young handled the ball on the stroke of half-time; once again, nothing was given.
Finally, Morgan Gibbs-White appeared to be fouled in the box whilst through on goal before play was waved on.
Nottingham Forest make official statement after Everton VAR drama
Forest, unsurprisingly, haven’t taken the decisions particularly well and have made an official statement just moments after the final whilst had blown.
It read: “Three extremely poor decisions – three penalties not given – which we simply cannot accept.
“We warned the PGMOL that the VAR is a Luton fan before the game but they didn’t change him. Our patience has been tested multiple times. NFFC will now consider its options.”
Nottingham Forest claim should come as no surprise
This statement should come as no surprise. Forest have made a name for themselves this season after appointing Mark Clattenburg in an advisory role.
The City Ground club seem to think they’re being dealt a rough hand regarding decisions compared to the rest of the Premier League.
They probably deserved at least one of their penalty claims on Sunday. Unfortunately, poor referring is part of the game. They must become accustomed to it rather than releasing meaningless threats like the one above.