Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett has now delivered his definitive verdict on the controversial VAR decision that ruled out Dan Ballard’s goal in Sunderland’s 1-1 draw at Brentford — and his conclusion has sparked fierce debate among Black Cats fans .
The Controversy That Has Sunderland Fans Fuming
Sunderland’s 1-1 draw at Brentford on Saturday was overshadowed by a major VAR controversy that left Black Cats fans furious . Dan Ballard thought he had given his side the lead in the eighth minute with a superb left-footed volley, only for the goal to be ruled out after a lengthy VAR check.
The review lasted nearly five minutes, with referee Thomas Bramall eventually ruling that debutant Kevin Danso had interfered with Brentford goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher’s line of sight from an offside position . The delay caused audible frustration inside the stadium, particularly among visiting Sunderland supporters who let their irritation be known .
Now, former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett has now cast his verdict on the decision — and his conclusion has divided opinion among Sunderland fans .
What Hackett Has Now Said
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hackett supported VAR’s check of the goal, arguing that Kelleher may have saved the shot had he been able to see it .
“I think this is clearly the correct judgment to rule that the player in an offside position has interfered with his opponent,” Hackett said .
