Fulham Blast VAR After Controversial Decisions in Man Utd Stalemate

Controversial Opener Sparks Fury

Fulham defender Calvin Bassey and manager Marco Silva voiced frustration after Manchester United’s contentious goal stood in a 1-1 draw, overshadowing a match marred by refereeing disputes. The pivotal moment arrived when United’s Leny Yoro appeared to shove Bassey in the back before Rodrigo Muniz inadvertently deflected a corner into his own net. Despite a VAR review, referee Chris Kavanagh allowed the goal to stand, drawing fierce criticism from the hosts.

“It’s a foul. He pushed me to stop me from getting to the ball. When the ref looks back, he’ll be disappointed,” Bassey told Sky Sports. “How much worse do you need? On another day, it goes in our favor.”

Penalty Drama Adds to Fulham’s Grievances

Bassey found himself at the center of another controversial call when he conceded a penalty for a challenge on Mason Mount, though Bruno Fernandes squandered the spot-kick by blasting it over the bar. The decision, made after a delayed VAR intervention, left Bassey questioning the consistency of officiating.

“I still think it’s harsh,” said Bassey. “If it’s someone stronger [than Mount], I don’t think it looks as bad. We have to be streetwise.”

Silva Slams Lack of Clarity

Fulham boss Silva echoed his defender’s frustration, labeling United’s goal a “clear foul” and lamenting the lack of accountability. “I cannot understand it. The way the goal came… it’s a clear foul,” Silva stated, avoiding deeper criticism to avoid potential sanctions.

Neville Questions Refereeing Standards

Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville sided with Fulham, noting Yoro’s “two hands in Bassey’s back” as decisive. Meanwhile, Fernandes’ collision with referee Kavanagh before his missed penalty added another layer of drama, with Ashley Young suggesting it disrupted the United captain’s focus.

The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has yet to comment on the incidents, leaving Fulham to rue missed opportunities in a match where officiating took center stage.