CHELSEA and Brighton fans were both fuming after finding out there is no VAR in the Carabao Cup.
Both sets of fans were left feeling aggrieved over decisions made by referee Tom Brammall during the Blues’ 1-0 win.
Lesley Ugochukwu escaped a red card despite a reckless tackles on Carlos BalebaCredit: Alamy\
Nicolas Jackson was judged to be in an offside position when he was played through by Cole Palmer
First Brighton fans were left up in arms over a challenge by Lesley Ugochukwu, who made just his second Chelsea start.
The summer arrival made a reckless tackle on Carlos Baleba and caught the midfielder high on his leg.
Baleba’s ankle got caught under Ugochukwu’s studs and the 19-year-old was very lucky to only receive a yellow card.
However some Seagulls felt Ugochukwu would have received a stronger punishment if the officials had the assistance of VAR.
One fan said: “Referee pathetic and they should have had 10 men yet magically no VAR for this one.”
Another added: “Ugochukwu is so lucky there’s no VAR😭”
A Chelsea supporter wrote: “Ugochukwu VERY lucky no VAR tonight. Bloody hell.”
Ugochukwu was allowed to stay on the pitch and Chelsea took advantage shortly after half-time through Nicolas Jackson’s goal, which ended up being the winner.
Jackson also put the ball in the back of the net later in the second half – only for the lineman’s flag to rule it out.
However, replays appeared to show the striker was onside when played through by Cole Palmer, leading to frustration for Blues supporters.
One complained: “How’s that offside? Linesmen should be way more careful if there is no VAR. Absolute joke.”
Another added: “Two players playing Nicolas Jackson on in this move, shocking decision by the linesman.
“Thankfully this didn’t cost us but I am not sure why there is no VAR when we have the technology available?”
A third commented: “Can’t believe VAR isn’t being used they robbed Jackson in broad daylight.”