West Ham United’s hopes of clinching a last-minute victory were dashed following an extensive VAR review, resulting in a 1-1 draw against Aston Villa in the Premier League.
Michail Antonio broke the deadlock for West Ham at the London Stadium, courageously heading in Vladimir Coufal’s cross within the half-hour mark, demonstrating their growing creativity despite Villa dominating possession.
This goal marked the end of Antonio’s seven-month goal drought in the league, as he had only managed to score three goals this season.
Antonio’s attempt to double West Ham’s lead early in the second half was disallowed by VAR due to a handball, thwarting their momentum.
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Villa capitalized on the setback, equalizing through substitute Nicolo Zaniolo, who converted Moussa Diaby’s well-timed cross with a first-time finish.
In stoppage time, West Ham seemed poised to secure victory when James Ward-Prowse’s free-kick resulted in a goalmouth scramble finished off by Jarrod Bowen and Tomas Soucek.
However, after a prolonged deliberation involving VAR and referee Jarred Gillett, Soucek was adjudged to have handled the ball before Bowen’s strike crossed the line, denying West Ham the win.
The inconclusive camera angles and subsequent decision left West Ham manager David Moyes visibly frustrated at full-time.
This draw saw West Ham drop points in six out of eight league games following Europa League fixtures, missing an opportunity to close the gap on sixth-placed Manchester United.
