Lazio Sporting Director Angelo Fabiani felt the VAR was inconsistent in its interventions during Saturday’s contest between Juventus and Lazio.
The Biancocelesti put up a courageous effort after being reduced to ten men following Alessio Romagnoli’s dismissal, but it was all undone by a late own-goal from Mario Gila which gifted the Old Lady a 1-0 win.
Referee Juan Luca Sacchi saw nothing wrong with Alessio Romagnoli’s challenge on Pierre Kalulu, but the VAR intervened to advise a review, which resulted in the expulsion of the former Milan captain.
Angelo Fabiani Irritated by VAR
On the other hand, Fabiani argues Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz committed two blunders worthy of a direct red card but went unpunished. Therefore, the Lazio Sporting Director questioned the validity of the VAR in his post-match interview with Sky Sport Italia (via La Lazio Siamo Noi).
It’s not about being angry, we have to congratulate the guys who played an exceptional game. But we are left with regret for the lack of consistency in judgment.
Douglas Luiz punches Patric, but the VAR doesn’t intervene, even though the footage is clear. The Brazilian also stamps on Rovella’s foot, and the VAR doesn’t intervene there either.
However, they only do so on Romagnoli’s tackle, where in my opinion, the referee had a good view on the pitch.
Flashbacks to Loss Against Fiorentina in Florence
Fabiani also recalled the controversial incidents from Lazio’s previous defeat at the hands of Fiorentina.
In Florence, the VAR intervenes on Tavares’ contact. So what’s the point of VAR if it’s going to be used in this manner?
It seems to me that the incidents are only one-way [against Lazio]. This is bad for football, not just for Lazio. We’ll recover, but with these incidents we’re not going anywhere.
If this is the VAR, let’s file an action to abolish it, because this season it’s causing damage.
