Ex-Liverpool Manager Reiterates VAR Introduction After Bournemouth Draw

Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has again called for the introduction of VAR (Video Assistant Referee) after his side’s Premier League clash with Bournemouth.

Matt Ritchie scored a stoppage-time equalizer for Newcastle United to give the Magpies a 2-2 draw at the home of South Coast club Bournemouth.

The first goal scored by the home side was as a result of a controversial penalty awarded by center referee Mike Dean.

After the game, the former Liverpool manager rued the penalty awarded to the home side as he called for the swift introduction of VAR.

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Newcastle United had earlier taken a 1-0 lead through a well-taken free kick from Salomon Rondon on the stroke of halftime.

Bournemouth equalized at the start of the second half after Newcastle United defender Federico Fernandez was adjudged to have brought down Nathan Ake in the box.

Joshua King dispatched the resulting penalty to draw his side level at 1-1 before he completed his brace moments later off a pass from substitute Dominic Solanke before the late equalizer from Matt Ritchie against his former club.

Despite his complaints about the penalty awarded, Rafael Benitez would have been delighted with the way his side responded to the controversial call by rescuing a point which took them seven points clear of the relegation zone.