Why was Joe Willock’s goal disallowed against West Ham?

Newcastle thought they’d made the dream start to their Saturday night clash with West Ham, but VAR put a stop to the celebrations.

Eddie Howe’s side went into the match knowing they needed to win to keep up with Manchester United, who moved three points clear of them after beating Crystal Palace earlier in the day.

They seemed well on track to do so when Joe Willock seemingly gave them the lead less than a minute in, but VAR ultimately ruled out his goal.

Shortly after kick off at St James’ Park, Miguel Almiron got to the byline on the right wing and cut the ball back for Willock.

The midfielder then took one touch before firing it past West Ham goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianksi for what he thought was his third league goal of the season.

VAR took a look at it though and ultimately ruled it out as the ball crossed the byline and went out of play just before Almiron sent in his cross.

it didn’t prove too costly as Newcastle won the ball back from the resulting goal kick and scored from it, but Willock would have no doubt been disappointed not to be the one to give them the lead.

VAR decisions are often hugely controversial, but this one wasn’t with most agreeing that the ball had gone out of play. The fact that Callum Wilson scored minutes later also undoubtedly played a part in the lack of anger from Newcastle fans.