Mike Dean Slams VAR for Overturning Ismail Sarr’s Goal in Tottenham Clash
Former Premier League referee Mike Dean has once again sparked debate with a scathing critique of VAR’s decision to disallow Ismail Sarr’s goal during Crystal Palace’s recent victory over Tottenham. Despite Palace securing the win, Dean passionately argued that the goal should have stood, reigniting discussions about VAR’s impact on the game.
The incident occurred when Sarr, Crystal Palace’s dynamic winger, found the net in a tightly contested match at Selhurst Park. The goal, initially celebrated, was overturned after VAR intervened, citing a foul in the build-up. Replays showed minimal contact, prompting Dean’s fiery response on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday. “It’s an absolute shambles,” Dean fumed. “The contact was negligible—barely a nudge. Sarr’s movement was natural, and it didn’t impede the defender enough to warrant a foul. VAR’s overanalyzing every frame, killing the flow of the game.”
Dean, known for his candid takes, emphasized that the decision contradicted the “clear and obvious error” threshold VAR is meant to uphold. “This wasn’t a blatant foul. The referee’s on-field call should’ve stood. We’re seeing goals chalked off for nothing, and it’s frustrating players and fans alike,” he added. His comments echo ongoing criticisms of VAR’s inconsistency, with many arguing it disrupts the sport’s spontaneity.
Despite the overturned goal, Crystal Palace triumphed, with Sarr’s performance earning praise for his relentless energy and flair. The victory further highlighted Palace’s resurgence under their current management, though the VAR controversy stole headlines. Dean’s remarks also come amid his broader skepticism of VAR’s application, as seen in prior incidents like the disallowed Pape Sarr goal for Tottenham against Chelsea, where he similarly questioned the process’s efficiency.
Tottenham, meanwhile, struggled to capitalize on their chances, with manager Ange Postecoglou’s own frustrations with VAR well-documented. The match underscored the fine margins in the Premier League, where officiating decisions can shift momentum, even if they don’t alter the final result.
Dean’s outspoken critique has reignited calls for VAR reform, with fans and pundits divided over its role in modern football. As Palace celebrates their win, the debate over Sarr’s disallowed goal lingers, with Dean’s words fueling the fire. “Let the game breathe,” he urged, a sentiment many share as VAR continues to divide opinion.
