David Moyes criticised the fact that VAR cannot be used in all FA Cup games after Bristol City eliminated West Ham United from the competition.
The Hammers were beaten to a 1-1 draw at the London Stadium, but they couldn’t get the job done at Ashton Gate, as the Championship side won a historic game. Tommy Conway’s score in the third minute sealed the victory after Said Benrahma was sent off.
The West Ham forward was sent off in the second half after lashing out at Joe Williams in retaliation for being fouled, and the Bristol City midfielder was perhaps fortunate not to get sent off as well.
Williams was also fortunate not to be sent off for a challenge on Danny Ings, but the referee was unable to use VAR.
Moyes remarked afterwards: “It’s incredible that they call it the biggest cup competition in the world, yet we have VAR one week and not the next. I find it ludicrous. It is not suitable for all clubs. If we do not have VAR, we should not have it in the event at all. “If we’re having it, make sure it’s everywhere.”
The Hammers manager admits he had no problem with Benrahma’s red card, but Bristol City could have been reduced to ten men had Williams’ challenges been examined.
Due to licencing requirements, only Premier League stadiums can employ VAR in the FA Cup, regardless of infrastructure or past top-flight status.
This has drawn criticism, but the FA has previously stated that “video assistant referees provide match officials with additional support and should be used wherever possible.” However, only Premier League venues are currently licenced to utilise VAR due to the necessary infrastructure, manpower, and expenditures.”
Aaron Cresswell, one of four alterations to the starting lineup, said that the Hammers weren’t good enough. He said: “We wanted to go as far as we could in the FA Cup, like we do in any competition we participate in, so we’re all disappointed we’re out.
“We’ll return to the training site and do everything we can to prepare for Sunday. We have another crucial game again in the Premier League, and hopefully we can come out with the appropriate outcome.”
West Ham have had a promising season and are presently sixth in the Premier League, with a game against Sheffield United coming up this weekend.
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