The Premier League have announced a huge change regarding how offside decisions will be made this month after successfully testing a new technology in the FA Cup this season – and it will impact Wolves vs Tottenham.
The debate of whether VAR has helped or hindered the game continues to rage on various media platforms, but it is clear that the technology is here to stay.
One part about VAR that supporters seem to dislike is the time taken for decisions, particularly things like offsides, with the players and the fans sometimes needing to wait minutes to find out whether a goal stands or not.
The Premier League has now announced a change that will quicken offside decisions and take some of the human element out of the decisions. Tottenham will first experience the changes later this month.
Wolves Wolverhampton Wanderers
Photo by SpursWeb
Semi-automated offside technology to be introduced
It has now been confirmed that semi-automated offside technology will be introduced from Match Round 32, starting April 12.
There has been non-live testing of the technology in the Premier League this season, while live operation was trailed in the FA Cup.
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The technology essentially automates key elements of the offside decision-making process, thus supporting VAR and ensuring the decisions are quicker.
The announcement reads: “The Premier League has worked in collaboration with PGMOL and sports data and technology company Genius Sports to develop the new semi-automated offside technology system.
“It provides more efficient placement of the virtual offside line, using optical player tracking, and generates virtual graphics to ensure an enhanced in-stadium and broadcast experience for fans.
“The technology maintains the integrity of the process while enhancing the speed, efficiency, and consistency of offside decision-making.”
Tottenham’s first match with semiautomated offsides
The semi-automated offside technology will not be applicable for Tottenham Hotspur’s London derby against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge or for their home game against Southampton on Sunday.
The first match where it will be in operation for the Lilywhites is for their trip to Molineux Stadium to take on Wolves on Sunday, April 13.
READ MORE: How to watch Chelsea vs Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League
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