Notes On A 2-1 Win Vs Spezia And More VAR Frustrations

Milan 2-1 Spezia FT
Theo 21, Giroud 89′ ~ Maldini 59′

Tatarusanu; Kalulu, Gabbia, Tomori, Theo; Krunic, Bennacer; Messias, Diaz, Leao; Origi were the starters.

The first half featured a few missed chances and a goal. An excellent Bennacer assist was converted by Theo. A lengthy VAR check ensued to check for offside but the goal stood. Late in the half Tatarusanu almost conceded but M’Bala Nzola misses his chance to equalize for the visitors. Leao had a chance to change the half time score but his attempt hit the post.

Tonali came on for Bennacer at half time. It was Daniel Maldini who got the next goal. He, on loan at Spezia, cleverly eluded Messias and Krunic and his curling shot found the far side. Minutes later Tonali scored what all thought to be a good screamer of a goal but VAR intervened to annul it for a foul in the build up. It was yet another frustrating intervention on a foul that was at best 50-50. Facing the prospect of dropping points Giroud came on along with De Ketelaere. The Frenchman rescued the team with a late winner. In the celebrations that followed his acrobatic goal he removed his jersey and got his second yellow. He and Theo had gotten yellows a few minutes earlier when tempers had flared between the players. Theo would also miss the upcoming midweek match at Cremonese due to the accumulation of yellows. The aforementioned N’Zola had also received a yellow at that point.

VAR frustrated yet again but the three points allowed Milan to not lose further ground to first placed Napoli, six points ahead.