Former Premier League referee, Peter Walton, has explained why Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes’ goal for the Red Devils against Manchester City on Saturday was not disallowed.
Man United defeated Man City at Old Trafford, thanks to goals from Fernandes and Marcus Rashford as Jack Grealish’s goal was not enough to help Pep Guardiola’s side.
During the encounter, Fernandes’ goal had to be awarded by VAR after it was first ruled out by referee Stuart Attwell.
Casemiro did well and gave an inviting pass for Rashford. However, the England star was in an offside position.
Rashford decided to leave the pass and as a result, Fernandes was able to run onto it and finish past goalkeeper Ederson in the Man City goal.
However, VAR Michael Oliver immediately checked the goal and adjudged Rashford had not interfered in play enough to disallow the goal, allowing it to stand.
Discussing Fernandes’ goal, Walton said on BT Sport: “Well, let’s just say I think this is a goal. You are quite right in saying that Rashford has moved for the ball, has not interfered with the ball, and has not played the ball himself, the flag goes up because of the offside position, but when VAR look at this and when the assistant discusses this with Stuart Atwell, I think this is a goal.”
He continued: “The law was amended to actually counter that argument of whether he touches the ball or does he interfere with an opponent playing the ball. He does neither, so as the law stands, he has not done anything wrong, it’s actually a very good play from Rashford himself.”
