Spurs stumble again in draw with Watford

LONDON — Tottenham’s struggles in the Premier League showed no signs of ending as Spurs needed a late equalizer just to earn a 11 home draw against lastplace Watford on Saturday.

The debate around VAR will likely go on as well, after the videoreplay system sparked more confusion and controversy on day when it had a direct impact on three games.

Dele Alli’s late equalizer for Tottenham was allowed to stand after a VAR check, despite the midfielder seemingly using his arm to control the ball before slotting home in the 86th minute. In addition, the big screens at Tottenham Stadium initially showed that VAR had overturned the goal, before the referee pointed to the spot and allowed it to stand.

Burnley manager Sean Dyche was also left fuming after VAR overturned a late equalizer for his team against Leicester, which came from behind to win 21 on the day the club marked the oneyear anniversary of chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha’s death.

Wolverhampton Wanderers, meanwhile, had two goals disallowed by VAR in the first half as it was held to a 11 draw by Southampton at home — although both those decisions appeared correct.

Also Saturday, Chelsea joined Leicester in moving into the top four by beating Newcastle 10 at home for its fifth straight win in all competitions, Everton beat West Ham 20, Aston Villa rallied to defeat 10man Brighton 21, and Bournemouth drew 00 at home against Norwich.