As technology is taking its toll in the world of soccer, we have seen some changes and modifications all to make the game more beautiful and interesting. One of these changes is the invention of Video Assistant Referee, which have been used in a couple of high profile matches. In a recent post on this blog, the merits and beauty of this invention has been discussed, which you can read here. But no matter what, any human invention that has beautiful advantages must have its cons and disadvantages, and moreso, the assistant is also human and not perfect. Below are the loopholes and demerits this new system seems to bring and certain events that exposes this.
Minor decisions will not be covered: when the Video Assistant Referee was introduced, it was said that it will only cover major decisions that could have a match changing effects, you might want to know an example of minor ones it wont cover. A free-kick that is not correctly awarded would not be reversed by the VAR, but in the real sense of it an incorrectly awarded free-kick which seems a minor decision may turn major if such leads to a lone goal in a match or if it resulted in a dangerous away goal as it may apply in champions league matches. Another minor decision it will not over-rule is the instant of an incorrectly awarded yellow card, this can also turn big if there is another offence now worthy of another yellow card for the same player, that will lead to a red card which could be match changing.
Over-reliance on the system: If care is not taken, with VAR some referees will keep consulting the VAR for all major decisions even when they have a clear first-hand view of the incident. And this can psychologically kill the tempo of a match when there are too many breaks during the match, which inadvertently can lead to time wasting.
Loss of confidence: The referee can lose confidence in his linesman if in two occasions his offside rule was corrected by the VAR, also the players might lose confidence in the referee if he changes his decisions often in a match or if he has to wait all the time to make decisions.
Ego issues: Remember the centre referee still has the final say, no matter the contribution the VAR has to give, in a situation whereby the referee feel that he saw a particular event very clearly and the VAR said otherwise,due to ego the referee could go on with his own decision and that could leave the VAR thinking he is not obeyed or not useful.
Candidly, the VAR is still going to be a very useful tool in modern football. Though, it may start floppy a little as seen in the friendly between France and England and in the Confederation cup match between Cameroon and Chile. But all the same we should look forward to its implementation in various leagues in the world as it will make a major difference in the sport.
