Why Kai Havertz's late Arsenal equaliser vs Aston Villa was disallowed amid VAR controversy

Arsenal were left fuming on the field after Jarred Gillett ruled out a late Kai Havertz equaliser against Aston Villa.

The Gunners missed out on the chance to reclaim top spot in the Premier League as they lost 1-0 at Villa Park. Liverpool’s win earlier in the day at Crystal Palace meant Mikel Arteta’s side needed to beat one of the division's most in-form teams on Saturday evening.

Arsenal ultimately came undone in the Midlands, with John McGinn scoring the only goal of the game after seven minutes. However, controversy struck at the death when the Gunners thought they had equalised.

A scrappy piece of play resulted in the ball ricocheting between Havertz and Matty Cash before the latter tucked the ball home. The celebrations were short-lived as Gillett immediately chalked the goal off with an on-field decision.

TV replays appeared to show the ball hitting both players' hands and, after a lengthy VAR check, Arsenal fans were left reeling with no clear evidence to overturn the decision. The incident evoked emotions from last month following Newcastle United’s controversial winner — another 50/50 call which went against the Gunners.

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Speaking on commentary, former Liverpool defender Carragher agreed with the referee's decision. He said: «I think, on the other angle, it definitely comes off his hand and then he puts it in. Yeah, there. Just on the top of his [Havertz] hand.»

After the game, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta spoke to Sky Sports having watched the game from the stands. However, he was rather curt with his response to the decision: "I prefer