Why John Stones’ Injury-Time Winner Against Wolves Was Allowed?

John Stones’ late header gave Manchester City a thrilling victory over Wolves in injury time. The header caused controversy as it was initially called out for offside. Here’s why the original decision to forbid the goal was eventually overturned.

After an early goal by Jorgen Strand Larsen and a solid defensive display by Wolves, it looked like City would draw at Molineux. After City’s equalizer, Josko Gvardiol, Wolves remained strong until Stones headed in Phil Foden’s corner far into stoppage time. The goal was first disallowed by the on-field referee, who claimed that Bernardo Silva’s offside position interfered with Wolves goalkeeper Jose Sa.

VAR Intervenes

Silva’s position and any influence on the play were examined by VAR, who promptly reported the judgment to them. At first, Silva was believed to have blocked Sa’s vision, which is why the goal was disallowed. But following a careful examination, VAR concluded that Bernardo Silva was not impeding the goalkeeper’s view and was not directly affecting Sa’s ability to stop the ball.

The Premier League Explanation

The Premier League’s Match Centre provided further clarification, posting on social media:

“Stones’ goal was disallowed on-field due to Bernardo Silva being in an offside position and in the goalkeeper’s line of vision. The VAR deemed Bernardo Silva wasn’t in the line of vision and had no impact on the goalkeeper and recommended an on-field review. The referee overturned his original decision and a goal was awarded.”