The Definitive Angle: MLS Week 38
The Definitive Angle is PRO’s analysis of the week’s Video Review use in MLS.
Week 38 overview
There were two Video Reviews during Week 38.
VAN vs LA: Review for penalty kick (foul challenge) – not given
What happened: Ryan Hollingshead (LAFC) challenged Richie Laryea (VAN) for the ball inside the penalty area, and Laryea went to ground. The referee did not identify an offense in real-time and allowed play to continue.
The VAR analyzed the available angles, determined that Hollingshead had tripped Laryea, and recommended an on-field review. After Video Review, the referee awarded a penalty kick.
On-field decision: Goal kick.
Type of review: Penalty kick.
Final decision after review: Penalty.
Length of review: 2:20.
PRO’s opinion: Hollingshead did not play the ball and instead made contact with Laryea.
STL vs SEA: Review for penalty kick (foul challenge) – given
What happened: Cristian Roldan (SEA) challenged Nicholas Gioacchini (STL) for the ball inside the penalty area, and Gioacchini went to ground. The referee awarded a penalty kick.
The VAR analyzed the available angles and determined that if there was any contact from Roldan, it was minimal and not impactful, and therefore, no offense had been committed. An on-field review was recommended, and after Video Review, the referee rescinded the penalty kick.
On-field decision: Penalty kick.
Type of review: No penalty.
Final decision after review: No penalty.
Length of review: 2:31.
PRO’s opinion: Roldan and Gioacchini both put their foot on the ground, side by side, with minimal to no contact. No foul was committed. This was a not a penalty kick.