Reason why Luton goal was awarded after VAR controversy in Burnley draw

12 January 2024 , 21:55

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Luton scored a controversial equaliser against Burnley

The reason why Luton's controversial late equaliser was allowed to stand despite appeals from Burnley for a foul on goalkeeper James Trafford has been revealed.

After the game, which finished 1-1, TNT Sports presenter Jules Breach said the broadcaster had contacted the Premier League Match Centre who had informed them the goal was not disallowed because the incident was "just a coming together" between Elijah Adebayo and Trafford.

The goal was scored in added time by Carlton Morris, who headed his fourth Premier League goal of the season. However, there was a lengthy VAR check after Trafford was blocked by Adebayo as he attempted to claim the cross, but it was ultimately decided that the goal would stand.

Speaking after the game, Morris told TNT Sports: "When needs must, put the two big fellas up front and cause a bit of carnage. I'm just pleased to be on the end of it. I thought the lads were a different class to the first half, we definitely deserved something if not all three points out of the game.

"We dug in, that shows character and what we're about. To be honest I've seen a couple of them, and obviously goalkeepers are going to get protection. But it was a bit soft and I'm just pleased we saw sense on this one because it's never been a foul, the big fella's just outjumped him and I'm glad he did because it's given me a great chance of a goal."

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Player of the match Ross Barkley added: "They are (big moments). Pivotal for us in getting those last-minute goals and it's brilliant it went for us, confidence-wise. We come here, came back from a goal down and got the point, so yeah it's good for the team.

"We do (finish strongly). In the last 15 minutes, 20, a lot of our substitutes make a difference when they come on, that energy, like Carl did today, and long may it continue."

James Trafford and Elijah Adebayo collided shortly before Carlton Morris scored for Luton (OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)

Burnley had taken the lead in the first-half through Zeki Amdouni, but Vincent Kompany's side were ultimately unable to pick up a crucial three points in the relegation battle. And Kompany was furious with the decision, telling TNT Sports: "I don't get it anymore... What is this here? There's a clear attempt to stop the goalkeeper getting up."

Luton boss Rob Edwards, meanwhile, admitted he understood Burnley's frustrations but claimed it would have been "quite soft" if the goal had been disallowed. "I think if I'm being honest if it's against me I'd be very disappointed like they are," he told BBC Sport.

"But if it had been disallowed it would have been quite soft. It's a difficult one. I'm pleased they made that decision clearly because it got us a point but I understand their frustrations. It's hard. It comes down to opinion. I'm glad it's gone for us tonight. That's the fault if there is one [with VAR] that it comes down to opinions. I'm pleased it's gone for us."

Matthew Cooper