Webb: Sesko handled ball in Man Utd vs Liverpool - but VAR couldn't disallow it
Sky Sports · 2026-05-12 · archive
Howard Webb believes the ball hit Benjamin Sesko's hand as he scored for Manchester United against Liverpool - but also says VAR could not disallow the goal for handball as they did not have enough evidence. Earlier this month, Sesko's goal in United's 3-2 win over Liverpool - which put the hosts 2-0 up in the first half - was controversially allowed to stand despite strong claims of handball. Footage appeared to show the ball brushing Sesko's fingers - with the Laws of the Game stating that goals must be disallowed if the goalscorer uses any part of his hand...
The Story So Far
West Ham United and fellow Premier League clubs have been provided with clarification regarding a controversial Benjamin Sesko goal scored during a Manchester United victory over Liverpool. Refereeing chief Howard Webb acknowledged that while the ball likely struck the forward's hand, the Video Assistant Referee was unable to disallow the strike due to a lack of definitive visual evidence at the time. The goal stood despite regulations stating that any goal scored via a player's hand must be overturned. This incident highlights the high evidentiary bar required for VAR to intervene on handball calls, a factor impacting all top-flight match results.
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