A challenge from Michael Keane on Kai Havertz was amongst the main talking points as Everton suffered a 2-0 defeat against Arsenal, but few are talking about the tug from William Saliba on Beto.
The Everton No.9 was pulled back by the France international as he approached David Raya’s goal, but Andy Madley opted against making a decision and let the game go on.
Much was still being made about the trip from Keane on Havertz at the time of this incident, but Alan Smith – working on commentary duty for Sky Sports – made a point of the pull from Saliba on Beto having noticed David Moyes visibly questioning the lack of a decision on the touchline.
Smith – who is privy to conversations in the VAR booth in his position as a Sky Sports commentator – then relayed what he had heard from Stockley Park about the clash everybody seems to have glossed over.
Were Everton fortunate to get away with this one? 🫣
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 14: Kai Havertz of Arsenal is challenged by Michael Keane of Everton.
Credit: Getty Images/Justin Setterfield
Alan Smith claims VAR officials felt William Saliba let Beto go just in time
The former Arsenal striker fed back what he had heard from VAR officials about the pull on the Guinea-Bissau international, claiming it was felt the Frenchman let go just in time for his grip on Beto to not be deemed a foul.
Smith also mentioned that those in the VAR booth felt the contact had stopped just before carrying on into the box anyway, although nothing was said about how it could have potentially been a red card.
MORE EVERTON STORIES
Having happened so soon after the lunge from Keane – who was without fellow defender James Tarkowski – on Havertz, it genuinely felt as if the officiating team were still mulling over that moment, and were unable to properly assess the coming together between Beto and Havertz.
Who was your Man of the Match in what was a positive performance? 👏
The players deserved so much more… 😡
Michael Keane in action for Everton during a Premier League clash against Arsenal
Photo by Alex Burstow/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Moyes seemed to notice the moment judging by his gesticulations on the touchline – as Smith spotted himself – but the complaints fell on deaf ears as the Emirates Stadium faithful continued to shout about the clip on Havertz.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Everton content each week direct to your mailbox