The Premier League have explained why Newcastle’s controversial opening goal against Tottenham was allowed to stand.
Spurs got off to a brilliant start when Dominic Solanke broke the deadlock after just four minutes.
However, controversy struck minutes later when Anthony Gordon’s equaliser was allowed to stand.
Anthony Gordon expertly equalises for Newcastle 💫
2 goals in 7 minutes… 👀
📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/eazc7DMMJQ
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) January 4, 2025
Playing out from the back, a pass from Lucas Begvall richoted off Joelinton’s hand just moments before Gordon raced through and scored.
Despite a check from VAR, the goal was given despite the ball clearly striking the Brazilian’s hand. And the Premier League have explained why the goal was given.
Tottenham Vs Newcastle: Premier League Explain Why Anthony Gordon’s Controversial Goal Was Allowed
In a statement released shortly after the incident, the Premier League explained that the handball by Joelinton was accidental. With his arm by his side, VAR ruled there was no intent by Joelinton in the build-up to the goal.
“The referee’s call of goal was confirmed by VAR, who checked for a potential handball by Joelinton in the build-up and deemed that his arm was by his side, in a natural position and the contact was accidental,” a post on the Premier League Match Centre’s X account read.
Should this have been called a handball on Joelinton in the build up to Newcastle's goal? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/HAvNDC08mH
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) January 4, 2025
Speaking on commentary, Ally McCoist backed VAR’s decision, saying: “There’s nothing Joelinton could do about it. His hand is completely down by his side and I’m pleased they’ve given the goal.
“I’m thrilled about that because I thought they would have disallowed it but I think VAR has got that spot on there is nothing he could have done about it.
“The game should continue, it did continue and Newcastle got a deserved equaliser – great finish Anthony Gordon.”
Ange Postecoglou Left Fuming By Newcastle’s Controversial First Goal
Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou cut an enraged figure on the sidelines in the aftermath of the goal.
Bergvall and other Spurs players surrounded the referee in anger as VAR checked the incident.
However, their protests were in vein with the goal allowed to stand.
