Referee Jarred Gillett first awarded Arsenal a penalty in the 14th minute when Viktor Gyokeres appeared to be fouled by Nick Pope.

After a lengthy VAR review, Gillett reversed his decision, ruling Pope had played the ball first. The decision frustrated Arsenal players and manager Mikel Arteta.

“I watched it live and again on screen. For me, it was a penalty,” Arteta said afterwards. “We’ve been told unless it’s clear and obvious, VAR won’t intervene. This wasn’t.”

Late in the match, Newcastle felt aggrieved when Gabriel handled the ball inside the box with his arm outstretched.

VAR official Darren England confirmed the referee’s on-field decision of no penalty, citing a deflection off Gabriel’s shin before the ball struck his arm.

Despite both flashpoints sparking debate, the Premier League has backed its officials. Gillett and England will continue to be assigned to high-profile fixtures this weekend.

Gillett will be VAR for Leeds vs Tottenham and referee Wolves vs Brighton, while England will take charge of Brentford vs Manchester City.

Meanwhile, Arsenal prepare to face West Ham on Sunday with John Brooks appointed as referee.

The decisions may linger in conversation, but Arsenal’s late goals from Mikel Merino and Gabriel Magalhães ensured the Gunners left Newcastle with all three points.