Merits of 'VAR lite' in League of Ireland teased out

Exploratory talks have taken place on whether ‘VAR lite’ would be feasible in the League of Ireland.

But cost factors around technology and personnel are likely to put any decision on the long finger for now.

Standard VAR, in football’s top tiers, uses a minimum of four cameras and additional officials to review in-game decisions.

But some smaller leagues have trialled FIFA-approved VAR Lite, which uses between one and three cameras to rule on in-game incidents and decisions.

Discussions took place over the last week on whether it could be introduced to the League of Ireland.

One scenario floated was that officials reviewing the footage - provided by additional cameras to LOITV - would be on site at each ground watching on monitors in a van.

But the fact most League of Ireland games are played on the one night, rather than spread across a weekend, means the cost of doing so would climb.

Further talks are expected as the FAI, match officials and clubs continue to explore the possibility and merits of technology-driven assistance.

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