The match between Crystal Palace and Everton at Selhurst Park in the FA Cup third round ended with a 0-0 scoreline, and saw Dominic Calvert-Lewin being shown a red card.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s red card controversy stole the spotlight in the Emirates FA Cup Third Round clash between Crystal Palace and Everton at Selhurst Park. The ever-controversial VAR took center stage once again, intervening before Calvert-Lewin was sent off for what appeared to be a fair challenge on Nathaniel Clyne. Despite the setback, Everton managed to hold off a lackluster Palace, resulting in a replay at Goodison Park in the coming weeks.

The first half of the match was a rather uneventful affair, with both teams failing to pose any real threat or create scoring opportunities. However, the intensity picked up in the second half, although the overall lack of quality from both sides made a positive outcome seem unlikely.

Then, in the 76th minute, the game’s major event unfolded. Calvert-Lewin slid in for a committed challenge on Clyne, seemingly winning the ball without making significant contact. The referee initially allowed play to continue, but after being called to the VAR screen, he controversially brandished a red card, resulting in a three-game ban for Calvert-Lewin.

Sean Dyche’s evening took another blow when Dwight McNeil suffered a potentially serious ankle injury. Nevertheless, his team held their ground and even had a chance to snatch victory when James Garner fired over the bar late in the game.

Ultimately, a draw was a fair result as neither team did enough to secure a win. Both sides will likely be content with remaining in the competition for now.

The talking point of the match undoubtedly revolved around VAR’s presence once again. The quest for improved decision-making accuracy has disrupted the flow and live experience of football, which is ultimately what draws fans to the sport. Football is meant to be fun and exciting, but VAR has taken away some of that joy and quality.

The decision to override the referee’s judgment, made by individuals who are detached from the game’s feel and emotion, undermines the essence of football. Calvert-Lewin’s tackle was not dangerous and may not have even been a foul, yet he now faces a three-game suspension. Who can claim to have better judgment in such a situation than the referee, who is right there on the pitch experiencing the game firsthand?

Unfortunately, VAR has become an integral part of the game, despite all the controversies, conspiracy theories, and distractions it has brought along. It has led to a culture of witch-hunts and clickbait, but football still manages to be enjoyable and captivating.

In terms of the player of the match, no standout performer emerged from this encounter. Given the lackluster display from both teams, it is difficult to single out one individual who truly shone on the night.