Wolves fans still smarting from the series of VAR howlers that have hurt their team’s progress under new boss Gary O’Neil can take comfort from the fact that the match officials are messing up in luxury at their £1m Stockley Park headquarters.
Wolves woes kicked-off during their first game of the season - a 1-0 defeat at Manchester United. Goalkeeper André Onana floored Sasa Kalajdzic in the United penalty area, but referee Simon Hooper did not award a penalty and VAR failed to correct his decision - earning an apology from elite referees’ boss Jon Moss.
If that wasn’t enough to incense Wolves manager O’Neil, his side have subsequently been on the wrong end of VAR calls in games against Luton, Newcastle United and Sheffield United - arguably costing them several precious points.
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But a report in the The Mirror has now detailed the luxury that video refs are able to enjoy before leaving supporters tearing their hair out at some of their inept decisions.
Fraser Watson reports: “If the system wasn't causing enough resentment as it is, the cost of the base used by those at Stockley Park will further fuel the fire. Referees don't just have computers and replays at their disposal, but also a luxurious lounge, supplemented by a canteen, gym facilities, a massage area and even a pool table.
“The £1m complex also boasts idealistic views over London, with (referees chief) Howard Webb ensuring the men in charge can enjoy complete comfort while working on games.”
But the Stockley Park set-up has come under fire from a former Premier League referee. In his regular Sun column, Mark Halsey said: “The facilities on offer at Stockley Park make it seem like a holiday camp, but referees and officials are there to do a job. The money spent is a tidy sum but what are we getting for it? Certainly not world-class officials.
“Nice conference rooms, top-of the-range furniture, a gym, an area for table tennis - I could understand splashing the cash on accessories if VARs were getting the decisions right. But they’re not so it’s a waste of money.”
O’Neil offered referees an olive branch after speaking to Howard Webb following a penalty error during Wolves match at Sheffield United. His side lost 2-1 at Bramall Lane and O'Neil quickly flagged up his concerns with VAR .
Emphasising that he believes things are going in the right direction, he explained: “I had a good conversation with Howard, a very open one around trying to improve things. I understand where Howard is, and after the chat I am confident they're trying to shift things in the right direction. They're trying to make changes, they're trying to put things in place to make sure there's less errors.”
