Bizarre VAR decision denies Troy Parrott another Goal against Ajax

Parrott thought he had scored his 23rd goal of the season late in AZ Alkmaar’s Eredivisie clash with the Dutch giants. With his side leading 1-0, the Ireland international rose to head the ball into the net and celebrated what appeared to be a decisive second goal.

However, after a lengthy VAR check, the referee was sent to the pitch side monitor. Following the review, the goal was chalked off, leaving players, supporters and Parrott himself visibly confused.

To make matters worse for AZ Alkmaar, Ajax went on to score an injury time equaliser, snatching a point and turning frustration into anger for the hosts.

The decision was all the more painful given Parrott’s recent history against Ajax. Just weeks earlier, he scored a sensational hat trick in a 6 0 KNVB Cup win over the Amsterdam side. That treble was his first since scoring three times for Ireland in their famous World Cup qualification win away to Hungary.

Replays from Sunday’s match only added to the controversy. Parrott was initially standing in an offside position when a free kick was delivered from the right. However, by the time the ball was flicked on into his path, he had clearly moved back onside before heading the ball home.

Despite that, VAR ruled against him, with the officials deeming him offside in the build up. Parrott’s reaction said it all, as he walked away shaking his head in disbelief.

With Ajax struggling to keep pace in the title race this season, the decision will be debated heavily in the days ahead. For Parrott, it was another reminder that even when he does everything right, modern football can still find a way to deny him.