The EFL were forced to release a statement after Newcastle United thought they opened the scoring during tonight’s Carabao Cup semi-final second-leg against Arsenal. The Magpies, who had a 2-0 advantage following the first-leg at the Emirates, had the ball in the net in the fourth minute.
Anthony Gordon’s fine pass found Alexander Isak through on goal and the Swede, like he has been doing all season, kept his cool and slotted the ball home. It was a fine finish from Isak, who slammed the ball beyond David Raya and sent St James’ Park wild.
However, Newcastle’s celebrations were cut short after a lengthy VAR check. Simon Hooper revealed to the supporters inside the stadium that Isak was offside in the build-up. Replays showed that Isak’s shoulder strayed beyond the last defender.
Hooper said: “After review, the goalscorer, Newcastle’s number 14, is in an offside position. The restart is indirect free-kick for offside.”
Gary Neville, who was on co-commentary for Sky Sports, added: “It’s the first time I have seen that live. Who’d be a referee, my goodness. If you wanted to make referees more unpopular, let them announce a disallowed goal.”
Meanwhile, the EFL released a statement shortly after, saying: “Isak’s goal was initially awarded on-field. VAR checked and determined that he was in an offside position and recommended that the goal was disallowed.”
That call seemed to wake Arsenal up, with the visitors enjoying a fine spell of possession before creating a couple of chances. Martin Odegaard went close as his strike crashed off the post, while the Norwegian also had an effort that was blocked by a Newcastle defender.
Despite this, it was Newcastle who took the lead in the 19th minute. Isak did well to take the ball under control and drive towards goal, before hitting a crisp effort that struck the post. However, Jacob Murphy swallowed up the rebound and tucked the ball into the back of the net.
“It’s all about Isak,” Neville said.” He’s messing the Arsenal centre backs about! Look at him up against Saliba, he thinks he’s got in front, just pokes it around the corner, gets a little bit of good fortune – I don’t think that pass was for him.
“What a strike it was from Alexander Isak and there is a little bit of good fortunate as it falls into the path of Murphy. The Newcastle centre forward has got Gabriel and Saliba on toast.”
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