Because Rogers' goal didn't count: Aston Villa files complaint

This is the scene in question: Villa player Morgan Rogers scores against United, but the goal was disallowed. IMAGO/PRiME Media Images

Villa finished the Premier League season in sixth place after a 2-0 defeat at Manchester United . They were just one point away from fifth place, a position that would have secured them a spot in the Champions League. Now, coach Unai Emery's team will "only" compete in the Europa League.

But the club isn't quite done with the season yet, as they've now lodged a protest against the defeat at the Red Devils. The reason for the anger was an incident at 0-0. Villa player Morgan Rogers found the net in the 73rd minute, but referee Thomas Bramall had already blown the whistle for an alleged foul before the ball had crossed the line.

What exactly happened? United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir slid forward, tried to pick up the ball, but lost it to Rogers, who poked it out of his hands. Villa's attacker then fired the ball into the empty net, but the referee ruled it a foul. Because referee Bramall had blown his whistle before Rogers' shot, the VAR could only review the challenge between Bayindir and Rogers. As a result, no foul was called – very unfortunate for Villa.

The sixth-placed Premier League team has now announced in a statement that the club has contacted the referee organization Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) regarding the decision.

"The decision not to award Morgan Rogers' goal (...) was a significant factor in the club's failure to qualify for the Champions League. According to the standards established throughout the season, an early final whistle is clearly in breach of current refereeing guidelines," the statement read. The VAR should "ensure that such situations receive the attention they deserve. Unfortunately, the technology failed to fulfill its purpose."