6 Ups & 4 Downs From Premier League 2019/20 Week 2
1. VAR's Handball Decision Ruins City's Party
Anyone who watched even one minute of Premier League punditry over the weekend knew this was coming.
As Gabriel Jesus cannoned the ball past a helpless Hugo Lloris in injury time, the Etihad faithful bounced to their feet like "Agüero-oooooooooo" had just netted a late winner against QPR. Not only would this secure a precious three points at home against a title rival, it'd also count as payback for the VAR-related misery during last year's Champions League semi.
Then, lightning struck twice. It was revealed that beanpole defender Aymeric Laporte had brushed the ball with his arm on the way past, and the goal was ruled out by VAR. Instantly, chants of "F*ck VAR" swept around the stadium, and fans booed heavily as the final whistle sounded.
New rules about handball state that even accidental incidents rule out goals. That's life, but it sucks big time for City. They seem to be the frontrunners of VAR misery lately, and they felt the full impact of the law on Saturday evening. It's more than a bit harsh considering their last-minute push for a winner.