Premier League release statement on John Stones VAR winner for Man City that hit Arsenal hard

John Stones' 95th-minute header was allowed to stand after a VAR check, with the Premier League explaining that Bernardo Silva was not in the line of sight of Wolves goalkeeper Jose Sa

John Stones' last-gasp header was allowed to stand after Manchester City teammate Bernado Silva was judged not to have been obstructing Wolves goalkeeper Jose Sa. Despite the linesman initially raising the flag for offside, Stones’ decisive goal in the 95th minute confirmed a thrilling win for the champions.

Referee Chris Kavanagh, prompted by VAR, conducted an on-pitch review and reversed his previous offside decision, allowing the goal to count.

Celebrations erupted amongst City players while Wolverhampton Wanderers were left disappointed having their staunch defensive efforts cancelled out. Wolves manager Gary O’Neil could only express dismay at the call that went against his team.

As Phil Foden delivered from a corner, Silva's presence appeared to be a potential distraction for Sa. However, by the time Stones connected with the header, Silva was determined not to have influenced the goalkeeper's ability to play.

The Premier League Match Centre clarified the situation: "Stones' goal was disallowed on-field due to Bernardo Silva being in an offside position and in the goalkeeper's line of vision. The VAR deemed Bernardo Silva wasn't in the line of vision and had no impact on the goalkeeper and recommended an on-field review. The referee overturned his original decision and a goal was awarded."

The defeat marked Wolves' seventh loss of the season, a conclusion reached after fending off numerous City corners in added time. Their inability to repel one final assault proved costly as they attempted to secure at least a point from the encounter.

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Wolves took an early lead at Molineux with Jorgen Strand Larsen finding the net from Nelson Semedo's cross just seven minutes into the game. Despite limited attacks on City's goal, Wolves defended well for the majority of the match.

However, a stunning strike from Josko Gvardiol from outside the box levelled the score before half-time. Manchester City kept up the pressure and were finally rewarded in stoppage time when John Stones scored.

Reflecting on the goal, Stones shared his relief that the officials made what he believed to be the right call. "We have been trying super hard to improve our set pieces and make the most of them. Today was a new focus and attitude towards them," he commented.

"Hopefully this is the start of many more. It is a vital part of the game at both ends of the pitch and really pleasing for me personally to get the winner after such a difficult game.

"I thought it had been chalked off. I tried to speak to the ref but he had a lot of people around him. For me it is the right call. Obviously I am going to be biased but I think it should stand."