The Definitive Angle: NWSL Week 6
The Definitive Angle is PRO’s analysis of the week’s Video Review use in NWSL.
Week 6 overview
There were two Video Reviews during Week 6.
POR vs LOU: Goal
Outcome: After review, Louisville #9 [Kayla Fischer] did not foul Portland #5 [Isabella Obaze] in the buildup to the goal by Louisville #13 [Emma Sears].
The final decision was a goal [to Racing Louisville].
Length of Review: 2:33
PRO’s opinion: During a challenge for the ball, Fischer (LOU) placed her right foot on the left foot of Obaze (POR), which caused the defender to lose balance and fall. This led to Janine Sonis (LOU) gaining possession and having the space on the left to cross for Sears (LOU) to score a goal.
The amount of contact is subjective, and the referee maintained his decision for the goal to stand after video review. The challenge prevented Obaze from being able to defend properly, and PRO would have preferred that the goal be disallowed.
POR vs LOU: Penalty kick
Outcome: After review, Louisville #13 [Emma Sears] fouled Portland #2 [Reyna Reyes] inside the penalty area.
The final decision was a penalty kick [to Portland Thorns].
Length of Review: 2:22
PRO’s opinion: Sears (LOU) placed her right foot on Reyes’ (POR) left foot inside the penalty area and caused her to go to ground. Sears got back on her feet, regained control, and continued to advance toward the goal, where she then committed a foul on Arin Wright (LOU) after the defender had cleared the ball. Reyes was issued a yellow card for this challenge.
Prior to that happening, this was a foul by Sears near the top of the penalty area, and the referee correctly awarded a penalty kick 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.