VAR

I thought I would weigh in with my assessment of VAR. I have been a football follower all my life, nothing unique about that. I am a West Ham supporter, it’s my own fault but there it is. VAR won’t save them this season.

In the first full season of VAR in place, there is bound to be controversy and mistakes and we, as football fans, are finding it difficult to get used to, after so many years of referees being the sole judge.

I understand the desire to correct obvious errors made by the on pitch ref. Goal line technology has 100%, stopped any doubt, as to whether the ball crossed the line and has been welcomed by everyone. 

To me it seems that VAR, in many decisions, has taken the on field errors and just transferred them to an off pitch error. No matter how good the technology it is still open to human interpretation. There is no arguing that thus far the decision making has been inconsistent. Obvious mistakes have been corrected and many of the decisions VAR has been used for have been the right one. Just as many have been wrong or from a fans point of view unjust. 
A “line” both figuratively and literally, has to drawn and if that line is crossed, however minutely, you have broken the rules. Offside is the obvious example. 
There has to be, what is offside and what is not but some of the decisions, thus far, have been so borderline, that not only could no real advantage have been gained but surely it destroys the spirit of the game?

When Cricket first introduced the third umpire, I’m sure many decisions baffled both players and fans alike. As time has gone on and the systems have improved, it is no longer considered to be controversial and has become an integral part of the sport. It has added a new element to the game and because it is transparent to the fans, increases their enjoyment.
Cricket is a more static game than football and has less incidents to judge but you get the point?

The football authorities should have learnt their lesson and realised right from the start that leaving both fans and players alike in the dark, while the process goes on, is not the way to endear VAR to them. In Rugby the referees conversation with those checking decisions is heard loud and clear, everyone knows what is happening! 
Which brings up another point the football referees should use the pitch side monitors far more. Perhaps next season they will but I am sure that if they do, it will help fans, managers and players to accept the off field decisions?

Let us hope that as the seasons go on, VAR will develop into a part of the game that is integral,  accepted and that the experience of this season, will lead to a better decision making process on those marginal judgements, such as handball and offside. 

VAR has certainly given players, managers, commentators, pundits and fans something to talk about this season. I would not normally write about football but VAR has compelled me to comment.