Manchester derby VAR officials dropped after Haaland goal controversy

Matt Donohue and Blake Antrobus have been left without Premier League appointments this weekend after being held responsible for an error in Erling Haaland’s winning goal in the Manchester derby.

Donohue was the video assistant referee (VAR) and Antrobus the assistant VAR during Manchester City’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday. Neither official has been selected for Matchday 5.

The decision was made by Pro Ref chief refereeing officer Howard Webb and his management team after reviewing the weekend’s incidents. Donohue and Antrobus will not be considered for a Premier League match before the international break, meaning the earliest either could return is October 10.

Manchester City’s decisive goal was initially disallowed for offside, with Haaland judged to have moved beyond the last defender. A review using semi-automated offside technology concluded that the striker had been onside, and the goal was awarded.

However, the review did not consider the role of Enzo Fernandez, who was in an offside position while attempting to play the ball before Haaland scored.

Fernandez appeared to have an impact on both Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens and defender Lisandro Martinez. Pro Ref later acknowledged that Donohue should have advised referee Michael Oliver to assess the incident on the pitch.

In a statement released shortly after the match, Pro Ref called the decision not to recommend an on-field review an “error of judgment”. The organisation also confirmed that it had contacted Manchester United to acknowledge the mistake.

The decision to remove Donohue and Antrobus from the appointments list is the first such action of the season following an officiating error.

Donohue made his Premier League officiating debut in May 2024 and has worked extensively as a VAR during the past two seasons. He has also refereed three Championship matches this campaign.

Antrobus has been appointed as a Premier League assistant referee and worked on the line during the opening three matchdays.

The other officials involved in the Manchester derby have retained their weekend assignments.

Oliver has been appointed referee for Bournemouth’s meeting with Liverpool on Sunday. Assistant referees Stuart Burt and Tim Wood, along with fourth official Paul Tierney, have also been given appointments.