The Definitive Angle: NWSL Week 22
The Definitive Angle is PRO’s analysis of the week’s Video Review use in NWSL.
Week 22 overview
There were two Video Reviews during Week 22.
SEA vs LA: No penalty kick
What happened: After review, Seattle #25 [Shae Holmes] did not foul Los Angeles #6 [Megan Reid] inside the penalty area.
The final decision was no penalty.
Length of Review: 2:16
PRO’s opinion: With the ball within playing distance, Reid (LA) stepped into the path of Holmes (SEA). Holmes then raised her right forearm and made contact with the back of Reid, who suddenly stepped into her path. The referee was correct to maintain his decision not to award a penalty kick because the contact was minimal and didn’t raise to the level of an offense.
GFC vs BAY: Penalty
What happened: After review, Bay #8 [Asisat Oshoala] committed a punishable handball offense inside the penalty area.
The final decision was penalty [to Gotham FC].
Length of review: 1:21
PRO’s opinion: Ella Stevens’ (GFC) header was blocked by Oshoala’s (BAY) outstretched right arm. Her arm was away from her body and it created a barrier for the ball. The referee correctly awarded a penalty for this handball offense after video review.
Please note: These videos do not contain audio. They are a recording of the screen as viewed by the VAR in real-time.