Newcastle fans give verdict on overturned penalty against Arsenal as claim made on Nick Pope decision

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Newcastle fans have been left feeling split over the refereeing decision that saw a penalty overturned by VAR against Arsenal.

It came during a heated first half at St. James’ Park, which saw Arsenal get on the front foot early, causing chaos to the home side’s backline.

The Gunners thought they had an opportunity to break the deadlock during the half, when Nick Pope seemingly felled Viktor Gyokeres.

Referee Jarred Gillett pointed to the spot, awarding a penalty, but after a VAR review, he overturned the decision.

It seemed as though the Newcastle goalkeeper got enough of a touch to deem it a tackle that was won in the end.

It led to some controversy, with disagreements on both sides as to whether it was the right decision or not.

So much so that even the Newcastle fanbase seems a bit split on whether it was correct.

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Newcastle fans split over penalty decision against Arsenal

With such a big decision being made by the referee, there are split opinions across fanbases as to whether it should’ve been a penalty or not.

For Newcastle fans, the opinion appears to be split on social media, too, as one supporter said: “Wow. Shocked at that decision. Pope gets a touch but it didn’t look good.”

Another countered that in saying: “Good it was never a penalty cos Nick Pope got the ball.”

“Definitely not a penalty!” one supporter said, defiantly, before continuing: “Great save from Pope AGAIN! Nice to see VAR getting it right for once!”

Another fan added: “Correct decision. Never ever a penalty.”

There were others, however, who were convinced that the goalkeeper was a little bit fortunate in the end.

“Pope has got away with one there like, I get he touched the ball. But the other way around, I’d be raging. Saying that the dive didn’t really help.”

Another fan claimed: “Nick Pope is a very lucky man. Why are we messing in the backline. Luck more than anything he got a touch of the ball.”

In the end, the penalty wasn’t given and it ended up spicing up the match, which has had a few fiery encounters in the past.

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Newcastle had another VAR decision go their way

There were two key VAR checks in the first half, and while the first one for the penalty will be heavily discussed, the second was just as important.

Nick Woltemade managed to rise the highest to nod in a cross from a set-piece, giving Newcastle the lead.

There were complaints from the Arsenal players, who suggested that Gabriel Magalhaes was shoved in the back by the striker.

However, after a review, the original decision of no foul was upheld.

Speaking on Sky Sports about the decision, Gary Neville revealed: “A really clear line from VAR, saying ‘A little touch in the back does not make Gabriel go down like he does’.”

It was another important moment that Newcastle will be glad went their way.