‘Bad luck’ - Burnley denied clear penalty against Newcastle United as VAR decision slammed

Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher believes Bruno Guimaraes should have given away a penalty in Newcastle United’s win at Burnley.

With the scoreline level, the Brazilian lunged at Lorenz Assignon inside the area. Burnley started the game brightly, having the Magpies on the ropes and testing Martin Dubravka.

Anthony Taylor rejected the appeals and VAR decided not to intervene - letting Newcastle off the hook. The game soon spun, with Eddie Howe’s side ruthlessly dispatching the relegation candidates to enhance their Europa League hopes.

The Magpies overcame their early blip to dismantle Burnley 4-1 and move up to sixth in the Premier League. But the outcome may have been different if, as ex-referee Gallagher claimed, the Clarets were awarded a spot-kick. 

“The referee has had a bit of bad luck,” he told Sky Sports. “The camera would show he’s blocked off, he’s trying to look around players but doesn’t have a clear view.

“If he has the view we have, he makes a different decision. If the VAR sends him to the screen, I think he would award the penalty.”

Gallagher did, however, agree with Taylor’s decision to give Newcastle a penalty in the second half. Anthony Gordon won his sixth spot-kick of the season when Josh Brownhill dragged him to the ground.

Alexander Isak missed from 12 yards before making amends from close range moments later. Gallagher added: “He grabs hold of Gordon’s shirt and the referee is in the perfect position. He sees it and gives it. Penalty.”