West Ham Express Outrage Over VAR's Failure to Review Potential Handball Incident Involving Man United Defender Lindelof

Despite the ball striking Victor Lindelof's arm inside the Manchester United box, West Ham's appeals for a penalty were rejected, leaving the team and its supporters outraged. 

The incident took place during the match when Said Benrahma's low effort found its way past David de Gea, giving West Ham the lead against the run of play in the 27th minute.

West Ham had a potential opportunity to double their lead just before half time, as a cross from Benrahma struck Lindelof's arm inside the box. 

The Hammers' players, including Benrahma himself, approached referee Peter Bankes, appealing for a penalty, but the official blew the whistle for half time before any decision could be made. Despite the incident being referred to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), the technology did not review the incident, much to the frustration of West Ham's players and fans.

Reacting to the incident, Sam Matterface said on commentary for talkSPORT: “There should be a handball. He moves his arms towards the ball. The game has been stopped for half time but I think that was a penalty.”

Scott Minto added: “I tell you what, he [Lindelof] has leant into that.

“The only way he can say it wasn’t a penalty was that his arm was close to his side but I’m sorry he’s leant into that and therefore it’s hit his arm.

“That was a penalty.”

Former West Ham striker Carlton Cole tweeted: “Honestly what is going on at Stockley Park?

“It’s clear as day, he moves his arm towards the ball. We can’t keep on protecting the use of VAR when such blatant ‘mistakes’ are being made. What is going on ?????”

talkSPORT understands Lindelof wasn’t penalised as the point of contact is within the body line of the Man United centre-back.

It ultimately proved academic as West Ham went on to win the match 1-0 in a huge boost to their survival bid.