Why VAR awarded West Ham controversial penalty against Man Utd

Manchester United fans were left seething after VAR intervened and awarded West Ham a decisive late penalty in Sunday’s controversial Premier League clash.

After missing a series of gilt-edged chances, particularly in the first half, United looked likely to pay for their profligacy when Crysencio Summerville prodded the hosts into a 78th minute lead.

To their credit, Erik ten Hag’s side, who had been in Europa League action on Thursday night, rallied and looked to have salvaged a point when Casemiro headed United back on terms with nine minutes remaining.

It was not to be, however, as the Red Devils slumped to another defeat, albeit in hugely contentious circumstances.

Referee David Coote initially saw little wrong with De Ligt’s challenge on Danny Ings but after he was ordered to take a second look by Michael Oliver the match official reversed his decision.

Jarrod Bowen stepped up, kept his composure and beat Andre Onana from the spot to seal a much needed win for the Hammers who have made an underwhelming start to life under Julen Lopetegui.

United, meanwhile were left baffled by the decision of officiating team and were left none the wiser by the explanation offered by the Premier League Match Centre account on X.

‘The referee did not award a penalty to West Ham for a challenge by de Ligt on Ings,’ read the message.

‘The VAR deemed there was sufficient contact on Ings’ lower leg and recommended an on-field review.

‘The referee overturned his original decision and awarded a penalty.’

More to follow…