The build-up to Arsenal's opener in their Premier League clash against Bournemouth has become a huge talking point amongst fans on social media.
Mikel Arteta's side were awarded a penalty in the 41st minute of Saturday's tie at the Emirates after Kai Havertz was brought down by Bournemouth goalkeeper Mark Travers.
Martin Odegaard slipped a defence-splitting pass into the German international, who tripped over Travers' trailing leg before referee David Coote pointed to the spot.
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After a dozen or so replays of the incident, VAR agreed with Coote, despite Travers insisting that Havertz dangled a foot to initiate contact.
Bukayo Saka shortly converted from 12 yards to give Arsenal a crucial lead in their title push, but the big talking point at half-time was the decision to award a penalty.
As you can imagine, the incident was met with a mixed reaction on social media.
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One fan wrote: "Fair play Havertz but he's played the game there. Deliberately drags his foot. VAR is a fucking joke not turning that round. What's the point in it. The thing is the inconsistency. Havertz clearly simulates contact. MacAllister gets kicked in the chest. One is a pen and one isn't. Make it make sense and turn VAR off."
A second said: "Havertz left his leg there. Never a pen but won’t be overturned," while a third commented: "Few players are smart to get these decisions right in their favor. Havertz clearly knew what he was doing. Said this before. Title challenging 3 would get soft decisions in their favor most times. No ref has the guts to give the right decision here."
A fourth wrote: "There’s contact and the keeper didn’t get the ball. In no way did he move his leg towards the keepers foot."
A fifth added: "How is it simulation if there is keeper initiated contact? Keeper hasn't got the ball. Watch it at full speed instead of slow motion and its a penalty all day. Havertz hasn't moved his leg wider to initiate contact. It's not his prerogative to ensure the keeper doesn't take him out."
With a win over Bournemouth, Arsenal would go four points ahead of reigning champions Manchester City, who have two games in hand over their nearest title rivals.
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Do you think it was a penalty? Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit: Premier LeagueTopics: Arsenal, Bournemouth, Kai Havertz, Premier League, Fan Reactions
