Martin Keown believes Tottenham Hotspur were lucky with VAR decision in Watford draw

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Tottenham Hotspur picked up a draw with Watford in the Premier League yesterday thanks to a late goal from Dele Alli. It was another difficult performance from Mauricio Pochettino’s men and it would be fair to say that VAR was on their sid on this occasion. 

Firstly, Jan Vertonghen was fortunate not to have given away a penalty against Gerard Deulofeu in the firs-half. Alli’s late goal was then rewarded, despite some suspicion of handball. 

Perhaps that led to a mix up in the stadium. Despite the goal standing, the big screen in Tottenham’s stadium initially displayed the ‘No Goal’ sign. 

In the end, Alli’s goal stood but one former Arsenal player was not impressed. 

Speaking on BBC Football Focus, Martin Keown suggested Tottenham were fortunate the goal was not overturned.

“I wouldn’t have argued with that. I believe Dele Alli handles it. He puts his arm out and plays it into a player.

“But the goal stands, allegedly. I find that remarkable.”

TBR’s View

The Alli goal was certainly a hot topic for debate but it is hard to see exactly where it struck him. From one vantage point, it clearly looks to have come off his shoulder and what is clear is that the referee did not make an obvious error. 

Had VAR ruled out the goal, it would have certainly been a harsh call from the referee. 

Whilst Watford will also feel aggrieved by Vertonghen’s tackle on Deulofeu, Danny Rose could argue with similar passion regarding a challenge from Roberto Pereyra in the other box. 

It is certainly still a divisive system but Alli’s goal would have been harshly scrubbed out, despite Keown’s protestations.