VAR takes and gives in first Tottenham victory under Ryan Mason

The Spurs were not great in their first appearance under Ryan Mason but three points are three points. After a lethargic first half that left fans wondering if a coaching change meant anything, Tottenham Hotspur came alive in the second half and scored a second goal twice thanks to VAR in beating Southampton.

VAR Always has a Say

It seems like VAR has a role in almost every game these days. Whether it is the fact they did or did not crop the dreaded offside lines, or reviewing for player interference, VAR gets its nose in. Whereas Fulham is likely going down following a non-call against an offside player on a goal, Tottenham had a goal overturned.

Heung-Min Son had finished a decent little cut-back cross from Sergio Reguilon well. Son was smiling and Reguilon was again a provider until all the joy went out of Whoville. There was Lucas Moura in the middle of the box in an offside position, potentially screening the goalkeeper. In a call most often seen in ice hockey, Moura was flagged for interference and VAR brought David Coote over for good measure and the goal was chalked off.

Frankly, both calls – Fulham and this one – are probably right but the system sure makes it feel wrong.

Southampton likely feels hard done by VAR as Tottenham benefit

Tottenham was in control most of the second half and seemed the more likely of the two sides to find a winner. After having had what appeared to be the winner ruled out it seemed like yet another one of those days for Tottenham.

However, a corner kick, some sloppy play, and then a poor tackle at the top of the box changed that. As some Spurs players were looking for a handball in the box, Sergio Reguilon was taking his chances with a big volley at the top of the box.

The foul was right on the edge of the penalty area and after further review, VAR decided it was a spot-kick. Moments later Son cooly converted the goal and Tottenham held on for the rare come-from-behind victory.

Had there been no VAR and the first goal simply would have stood, it probably would feel better but as a fan of a desperate team, we will take the three points. Those three points from defeating Southampton, keep alive the slim hopes Tottenham still has for finishing in the top four.

With five more games and a cup final on Sunday, anything can happen. And now a bit into the experiment, we know that with VAR anything will happen.