Premier League Clarifies VAR Decision Behind Manchester United’s Late Penalty Against Burnley
The Premier League has provided an official explanation for the late penalty decision that secured Manchester United’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Burnley on Saturday.
The match, which marked United’s first win of the season, saw several momentum swings, with both teams appearing likely to share the spoils at one stage. Ruben Amorim’s side initially went ahead courtesy of a Josh Cullen own goal. However, Burnley quickly responded with an equalizer from Lyle Foster, who scored from close range.
Bryan Mbeumo then put United back in front, only for Burnley to level again, this time through Jadon Anthony. As the contest appeared to be heading for a draw, a decisive moment arrived in stoppage time.
Amad Diallo had his shirt pulled inside the penalty area, an action that was initially overlooked by referee Sam Barrott, who waved play on. Following a recommendation from the VAR team, Barrott reviewed the incident at the pitchside monitor and ultimately changed his decision.
A penalty was awarded, and Bruno Fernandes stepped up to convert the winning goal at Old Trafford.
The Premier League Match Centre released a statement on X to clarify the decision:
“After VAR review, the referee overturned the original decision of no penalty to Manchester United.
Referee announcement: ‘After review, Burnley eleven has a sustained pulling action on Manchester United sixteen, which results in a penalty kick. My final decision is yellow card and penalty’.”
