“In the Moment”: Konstantinos Mavropanos Gives Candid Take on VAR Call Against Everton

Everton extended their unbeaten run in the Premier League to nine games, thanks to a late equalizer from Jake O’Brien in injury time.

Although the Toffees weren’t at their best, they still managed to secure a valuable point at Goodison Park.

O’Brien’s performance drew praise from Danny Murphy on Match of the Day, with the pundit describing the Irishman as “terrific” since David Moyes took charge.

However, the match was not without controversy, as Everton saw a penalty decision overturned following a VAR review.

The contentious moment came just before halftime when Konstantinos Mavropanos was initially penalized for a foul on Beto inside the box.

Referee Darren Bond pointed to the spot, but after consulting the VAR, he reversed his decision.

The West Ham defender later shared his thoughts on the incident, firmly believing the right call was made.

Mavropanos: VAR Got It Right

As Beto attempted to shoot, he went down under Mavropanos’ challenge inside the West Ham box.

Bond awarded a penalty, but after a closer look via VAR, he changed his mind.

The Premier League released a statement on X (formerly Twitter) explaining the decision:

“VAR checked the referee’s call of a penalty to Everton for a challenge by Kilman on Beto – and deemed that no foul was committed, therefore recommended an on-field review.

The referee overturned the original decision and play restarted with a drop ball.”

Mavropanos was adamant that the reversal was correct. Speaking to West Ham’s official website, he stated:

“I don’t think I really touched him. I haven’t seen it again yet, but I knew in the moment that I hadn’t made a mistake and that it wasn’t a penalty.

Max [Kilman] was there as well and he said the same, so I think it was clear.

I’m pleased the right decision was made, and that it didn’t have an impact on the game.”

Everton’s Frustration, but a Valuable Point

In the end, there may not have been enough in Mavropanos’ challenge on Beto to justify a penalty.

The contact appeared to occur just as Beto was completing his kicking motion, making it seem like a natural collision rather than a foul.

Had the penalty stood and Everton converted from the spot, it could have significantly altered the course of the second half.

However, despite an underwhelming performance, the Toffees still managed to salvage a point, which remains a positive outcome.

Picking up points even when not playing well is an important trait, and it could be crucial for Everton next season when they move to Bramley-Moore Dock.