Former ref Keith Hackett ‘bemused’ after Aston Villa equaliser robbery

Trailing to Jordan Ayew’s goal, the visitors thought they had snatched a point when substitute Henri Lansbury rifled home in the sixth and final minute of stoppage time.

But referee Kevin Friend instead pulled play back and booked Jack Grealish for diving in the build-up, a decision which condemned Villa to a third defeat in four Premier League matches.

Friend’s decision, described as “poor” by Villa boss Dean Smith, has been widely condemned, with Match of the Day pundit Jermaine Jenas calling it: “One of the biggest howlers you are likely to see, ever.”

The Premier League later confirmed VAR had been used to review a possible penalty claim when Grealish went to ground but ruled no “clear or obvious” error had occurred, allowing Friend to stick with his original decision.

Lansbury’s goal could not be reviewed, under VAR guidelines, as Friend had blown his whistle to stop play before the ball crossed the line.

Hackett believes the Professional Game Match Officials Board (PGMOL) need to review the procedures, warning referees are being made to look foolish.

He tweeted yesterday: “Am bemused by the poor procedure that the PGMOL have adopted with VAR.

“Aston Villa (were) denied a goal by a very poor decision by the referee to caution a player for simulation.

“It was a foul, advantage should have been applied and goal confirmed. VAR is in place to rectify S&O (serious and obvious) error.”

Friend’s decision was checked by video referee Andrew Madley, stationed at the FA’s VAR headquarters in Stockley Park, west London. Hackett believes pitchside monitors must be used to help officials inside the stadium, adding: “Referees are looking foolish because VAR is not doing its job.”

The late drama sparked chaotic scenes with Grealish having to be calmed down by team-mate Tyrone Mings.

Despite the obvious frustration, Villa goalkeeper Tom Heaton later struck a sympathetic tone when discussing the incident.

He said: “It was a tough one to take. I have seen Kevin Friend hundreds of times and I think he is top class. I thought he must have seen something.

“He said to us at the end he had a clear view of it. But that is not my opinion. I think there were a couple maybe even three fouls in there, a shove in the back and then Gary Cahill wipes him (Grealish) out.

“Generally I have no issues with refs, it is a tough job and he (Friend) is one of the best. These things can happen.”