Premier League explains disallowed goal for Nottingham Forest against Tottenham

The Premier League has released a statement through its official match centre, clarifying the reason why Morgan Gibbs-White's goal for Nottingham Forest against Tottenham was not allowed during their 0-0 draw on Saturday afternoon.

Nottingham Forest believed they had taken the lead in the 67th minute when the midfielder headed the ball past Antonin Kinsky following a mix-up in the penalty area, adding further frustration to their opponents' difficult start to the season.

Roberto De Zerbi's side was ultimately relieved, as Andrew Robertson praised the VAR's decision to disallow the goal, which allowed the Lilywhites to secure their first point of the season after a busy summer that saw them among the biggest spenders, raising expectations significantly.

While the chaos in the box did not seem to reveal anything significant at first glance, replays indicated that there was a handball prior to Gibbs-White's headed goal. The Premier League has now provided an explanation (see below):

"67’ VAR OVERTURN. VAR checked the referee’s call of goal to Nottingham Forest – and determined that Williams handled the ball immediately before scoring and recommended that the goal was disallowed.

"REF: 'After review, the ball touches the hand of Nottingham Forest No.3 before the goal is scored. The final decision is a direct free-kick for Spurs.'"

Ultimately, the match was rather uneventful in the Midlands, with Forest managing the only shot on target throughout the game. Tottenham's substitutes in the second half, including loan signing Mykhailo Mudryk, were unable to make an impact, despite holding a significant share of possession.

Tottenham fans have learned that their new-look team will require more time to gel, as they have yet to score in the league despite a convincing 5-1 victory over Charlton in the Carabao Cup earlier in the week.

Dominic Solanke only played the last eight minutes, which was evident in their performance. As they prepare for their next match against Everton at home, the Lilywhites must find a way to convert their possession into meaningful shots. Their new wingers have the potential to create opportunities, but finishing has been a major issue.

Source: GiveMeSport