Postecoglou claims VAR is ‘killing the game’ after Spurs lose to Chelsea

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou has expressed his frustration that video reviews are “killing the game” after his team had an equaliser overturned in the 1-0 loss at Chelsea in the English Premier League.

Pape Sarr’s goal in the 69th minute was disallowed for his foul in the build-up, with video assistant referee Jarred Gillett and on-field referee Craig Pawson taking a long time to reach a decision.

It contributed to the second half having 12 minutes of stoppage time at Stamford Bridge.

Enzo Fernández had earlier scored for Chelsea in the 50th minute.

“It’s [VAR] killing the game,” Postecoglou said.

“It’s not the same game it used to be.”

Postecoglou added: “You just don’t know what you’re going to get. You’re standing around for 12 minutes. It’s killing the game.

“But no-one cares about that. I think everyone loves the drama, the controversy.

“I’m sure there’ll be 24 hours of discussion around it, I think that’s what everyone wants. It’s killing the spectacle of the game.”

Postecoglou appeared more unhappy that it took so long to come to a decision, rather than the decision itself.

“If the ref saw that and needed to see that for six minutes, tell me what’s clear and obvious about it,” he said.

There has been a growing disconnect between Postecoglou and Tottenham’s fans, with the team languishing in 14th place and losing its playing identity.

This was a 16th loss in 30 Premier League matches this season for Spurs.

Their visiting fans serenaded Postecoglou with a chant of “You don’t know what you’re doing” when he brought on Sarr to replace Lucas Bergvall.

Postecoglou then appeared to face the fans and cup his hand to his ear after Sarr scored the goal that was later disallowed.