Premier League Explains Why Harvey Barnes’ Controversial Newcastle Goal Against Manchester City Was Allowed.
The Premier League has issued an official explanation after Harvey Barnes’ second goal for Newcastle against Manchester City sparked widespread confusion. Barnes smashed the ball into the top corner during the second half, putting Newcastle 2-1 ahead, but the celebration was put on hold during an extended VAR review.
After a goalless first half at St James’ Park, the match burst into life with a flurry of goals. Barnes broke the deadlock in the 63rd minute, but Manchester City responded quickly when Ruben Dias scored with a deflected shot just five minutes later.
Barnes then netted his second in the 70th minute to restore Newcastle’s lead, though the goal underwent a lengthy VAR check for two potential issues. The goal came after Nick Woltemade flicked a header to the far post, where Bruno Guimaraes struck the crossbar with his shot.
The ball fell to Barnes, who showed excellent control before firing into the roof of the net from close range. As he wheeled away in celebration, City players immediately surrounded the referee, insisting the goal should be ruled out because Guimaraes appeared to be offside when receiving Woltemade’s header.
Former Newcastle defender Jonathan Woodgate agreed with City’s protests while commentating on BBC Radio 5 Live, saying he believed Guimaraes was offside. Social media erupted with similar concerns, with one fan asking: “What happened to the lines? Bruno surely offside there!”
However, after a tense wait, the referee pointed to the center circle to confirm the goal, sparking jubilant scenes at St James’ Park—and prompting the Premier League Match Centre to release an official explanation.
Their statement read: “The referee’s decision to award the goal was checked and confirmed by VAR—both Guimaraes and Barnes were in onside positions during the buildup. VAR also verified the referee’s decision that there was no foul on Donnarumma before the goal.”
The explanation included images proving that Dias had actually played Guimaraes onside with his shoulder. It turned out to be a crucial decision, as Newcastle held on under intense late pressure to secure a vital 2-1 victory.
The result leaves Manchester City in third place in the Premier League table, four points behind leaders Arsenal, who face Tottenham in the north London derby on Sunday. For Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, it was his first-ever win against City, providing much-needed relief after the international break.
