Premier League issue VAR explanation as Newcastle denied penalty before Arsenal winner

The Premier League's official Match Centre account has confirmed why Newcastle United were denied a second-half penalty against Arsenal. The ball hit defender Gabriel Magalhaes on the arm late in the game but no penalty was given, as the Gunners claimed victory at St James' Park.

Newcastle winger Anthony Elanga’s cross hit Gabriel on the arm as the ball deflected up, with the scores level. Referee Jarred Gillett did not award a penalty and the VAR (video assistant referee) agreed after play was stopped to check the potential for a spotkick

The incident emerged as Newcastle immediately looked to hit back after Mikel Merino equalised in the 84th minute. But Elanga's efforts proved to be in vain due to the manner in which the ball hit Gabriel's arm.

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After the stoppage, the Premier League Match Centre account on X said: "The referee’s call of no penalty was checked and confirmed by VAR – with the ball deemed to have deflected off Gabriel’s shin and onto his arm."

Magpies assistant Jason Tindall picked up a yellow card for his protests over the decision. The coach would soon be left even more disappointed.

It was a header from Gabriel that ultimately proved the difference in the game for the Gunners deep into stoppage time. The defender rose highest from a corner to earn the north London side a vital three points and to narrow the gap to league leaders Liverpool.

"My first thought was yes, it's handball," said Pat Nevin on BBC 5live. "I have seen it again and in a normal world, I am giving a penalty there."

The penalty box shout was not the first afternoon. Viktor Gyokeres was awarded a penalty for a clash with Nick Pope before seeing thedecision overturned in the opening half.

Newcastle's goalkeeper was deemed to have made contact with the ball. Gary Neville was not convinced of that assessment.

"Gyokeres was very close to the goalkeeper and nicked it past him. It looked like a clear penalty. It's knee on knee." After seeing the subsequent replay, he added: "Gyokeres touches the ball, then there's a touch [from Pope] and he bring him down after that. I'm a little torn, to be honest."

He added: "I mean Gyokeres kicks it against Pope's feet. Pope has still blocked Gyokeres. Pope is the most relieved man in the stadium."

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