Danny Rohl has renewed his call for the implementation of VAR in the Sky Bet Championship following Sheffield Wednesday’s contentious 2-1 defeat at the hands of promotion-chasers Sunderland. Eliezer Mayenda once again played the spoiler for Owls, notching up his season’s tally to four goals with a double.
However, the game wasn’t without controversy as Mayenda sparked debate with his first goal at Hillsborough.
Two significant decisions by referee Will Finnie in the opening half didn’t go in favour of Sheffield Wednesday, which could have potentially altered an otherwise captivating encounter.
Sunderland’s defenders Leo Hjelde and Chris Mepham were caught in confusion during an early long throw into the penalty area from Svante Ingelsson, subsequently leading to what appeared to be a ball to arm contact with Hjelde; however, the penalty pleas were dismissed. The visitors made the most of that in the 34th minute as Max Lowe misread a lofted pass from Hjelde, allowing Mayenda to control the ball with his arm and slot it home.
Reflecting on a string of unfortunate outcomes, Rohl expressed his hopes for match officials to be supported by technological advancements soon. “I think I’ve made my clear statements over the last three weeks,” he stated when prompted about introducing VAR at this level of English football.
“What we should do is help the refs on the pitch, especially now I think every week we have a big, big decision against us. Two easy conceded goals and then two big decision against us, and in the end we stay here and lose 2-1.
“Before the 1-0, there is a handball, a handball in the box from the opponent, but the ref doesn’t see it. One-nil to us (if the handball is penalised), but it is a different dynamic, especially playing at 0-0.
“Everybody will see it, everybody could see it, but I can’t decide the situation. This is maybe why we need support for refs on the pitch.”
Rohl lamented Wednesday’s play-off hopes receiving a blow after a third consecutive league loss but remained optimistic about a return to form. “I think at the moment I can record and repeat for the last four weeks,” he said introspectively.
“Again, another strong performance from our side. A lot of good chances, we control the game, we dominate the game at home, we are front foot.”
He continues to maintain a positive outlook: “We have to continue with good performances and I believe the time will come where the momentum will come back.”
He shares his perception of recent events: “It feels at the moment every small situation is against us and football is about small details and small situations.”
On the flip side, Le Bris praised his team’s significant win that edged the Black Cats closer to their promotion rivals. “It was a really important win this evening because after two defeats we had to react and I think showed character,” he asserted.
Talking about their approach, he said: “Our only goal is to win games and after that, we will see (how) the dynamic of the top three (will play out).”
Reflecting on things outside their control, he concluded: “We can’t control this part of the table, but we just have to win and after that we will see where we are.”
When questioned about the handball that led to the first goal, Le Bris responded with a sly grin: “I’ve not seen it yet. Football is like that; sometimes for and sometimes against you.”
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