The Definitive Angle is PRO’s analysis of the week’s Video Review use in MLS.
Matchday 2 overview
There were three Video Reviews during Matchday 2.
CHI vs MTL: Red card (DOGSO)
Outcome: After review, Chicago #24 [Johnny Dean] fouled Montréal #18 [Hennadii Synchuk] outside the penalty area.
The final decision was a direct free kick [to CF Montréal] and a red card to Chicago #24 for denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity.
Length of Review: 3:09
PRO’s opinion: As they were running through the middle of the field, Dean (CHI) pulled Synchuk’s (MTL) jersey and forced him to the ground. That prevented the attacker from gaining control of the ball from Prince Owusu’s (MTL) low cross. The referee correctly issued a red card for the DOGSO offense after video review.
PHI vs NYC: No penalty kick
Outcome: After review, New York #34 [Raul Gustavo] did not foul Philadelphia #4 [Jovan Lukic] inside the penalty area.
The final decision was no penalty, and play restarted with a goal kick [to New York City].
Length of Review: 3:17
PRO’s opinion: As Lukic (PHI) was about to receive the pass from Danley Jean Jacques (PHI), he was challenged from behind by Gustavo (NYC). The defender made contact with Lukic’s legs, but the referee determined that it was a case of two players coming into the same space and allowed play to continue. The VAR analyzed the available angles and concluded that the defender made impactful contact with the attacker and recommended an on-field review. The referee retained his original decision after video review.
There was contact that could have impact on Lukic’s ability to control the ball with his right leg, which was the one that was kicked by Gustavo. A penalty kick would have been PRO’s preferred outcome.
The final decision was a penalty [to Columbus Crew].
Length of Review: 2:41