A-League heavyweights Sydney FC, Perth Glory back VAR

Champions Sydney FC and premiers Perth Glory have thrown their considerable weight behind the VAR technology that has created headlines for all the wrong reasons since it was introduced in the A-League in 2017.

The video assistant referee system has consistently sparked irritation and frustration among some coaches, players, fans and the media, and is seen as one of the reasons for a general decline in viewer and spectator numbers in the competition.

Yet two heavyweights of the A-League have staunchly defended the use of the VAR and said they want it to remain in operation if and when the competition resumes after it was halted by the effects of COVID-19 in late March.

This pro-VAR stance comes despite FIFA's announcement at the weekend that its member federations were free to do away with the system for at least the rest of the season, should they wish to do so.

So will Australia take this opportunity to do away with the detested system once and for all? Highly unlikely if Sydney's and Perth's position that is believed to be consistent with that of the other clubs is anything to go by.
Both clubs said they were satisfied with the VAR's operation and see no reason to get rid of it.

"We have been through significant teething problems with the VAR and I think this season it has largely got it right," Sydney chief executive Danny Townsend said.

"If there is technology available for use and we have managed to reduce inconsistency in its application it would be a step backwards to remove or suspend it.

"The data presented to clubs by the FFA demonstrates a clear improvement in the outcome of contentious decisions.

"I do accept that it upsets the flow of the game so we need to continue to look at ways to speed up its application.

"That said, our game - like all codes - is under financial stress and all costs of the game need sufficient scrutiny to ensure we are spending money in the most appropriate places."

Glory chief executive Tony Pignata echoed Townsend's sentiments.

"Given that we started the season with VAR, we should continue with it," Pignata said.

"A lot of factors come into it such as the huge cost but it is here to stay. The last month of league games will be televised but they will be without spectators so maybe we can make VAR more interactive for the people at home, so as to give them an insight into how the system works.

"I know VAR can be frustrating because it is now very hard to celebrate a goal but most of the time our referees got the VAR decisions right and, ultimately, you want the right decision.

"People are getting more accustomed to VAR and we as a club are behind it."

Comment was sought from Football Federation Australia.


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3 min read
Published 12 May 2020 6:00pm
By Philip Micallef


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