Manchester derby VAR officials stood down after Erling Haaland goal error

The pair were the VAR and assistant VAR for Manchester City's 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday, but have been left without appointments for Matchday 5.

The decision was made by Pro Ref chief refereeing officer Howard Webb and his management team following a review of the weekend's incidents. Donohue and Antrobus will not be considered for a Premier League fixture until after the international break, meaning their earliest possible return is October 10.

City's decisive goal was initially ruled out for offside, with Haaland judged to have strayed beyond the last defender. A VAR review using semi-automated offside technology established that the striker was actually onside and the goal was subsequently awarded.

However, the review failed to take into account the involvement of Enzo Fernandez, who was in an offside position as he attempted to play the ball before Haaland scored.

Fernandez appeared to affect both Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens and defender Lisandro Martínez, and Pro Ref later admitted that Donohue should have recommended that referee Michael Oliver review the incident on the pitch.

In a statement issued shortly after the match, Pro Ref described the decision not to recommend an on-field review as an "error of judgment" and confirmed that it had contacted Manchester United to acknowledge the mistake.

The decision to stand down the two officials is the first of the season following an officiating error.

Donohue, who made his Premier League officiating debut in May 2024, has also worked as a VAR extensively over the past two seasons. He has taken charge of three Championship matches this campaign.

Antrobus, meanwhile, has been used as a Premier League assistant referee and officiated on the line during the opening three matchdays.

The other officials involved in the Manchester derby have not been stood down. Oliver has been appointed to referee Bournemouth's meeting with Liverpool on Sunday, while assistants Stuart Burt and Tim Wood and fourth official Paul Tierney have also received weekend assignments.

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