Luton Town assistant manager Chris Powell has pointed to the club's controversial defeat at Stevenage as a clear argument for introducing VAR in League One. The Hatters fell to a 2-1 loss at Broadhall Way in a match where two key decisions went against them, leading to manager Jack Wilshere's dismissal from the touchline.
Powell said the hosts' opening goal should not have stood after what he described as a blatant foul by Stevenage midfielder Dan Phillips on Liam Walsh. The incident sparked furious protests from the Luton bench, resulting in Wilshere being shown a red card. "I get it, referees have a tough job," Powell said. "But surely there is an argument for VAR at this level."
Wilshere to miss Bradford clash
The sending-off means Wilshere will be banned from the dugout for Luton's next League One fixture, a home game against high-flying Bradford City on 19 September. Bradford currently sit third in the table, making it a significant test for a Luton side looking to bounce back.
Luton's frustration was compounded later in the game when Josh Magennis doubled Stevenage's lead from a position that appeared to be offside. Kasey Palmer's effort was deflected in by defender Mads Andersen to pull a goal back with 15 minutes remaining, but Alex Revell's side held on for the win. The result leaves Luton 12th in the League One standings with eight points from their first six matches.
Powell warns of consequences
Powell emphasised that incorrect decisions at this level carry serious weight. "It can cost teams points, it can cost people jobs," he stated, underlining the stakes involved in a tight promotion race. The Hatters are now five points behind early leaders Sheffield Wednesday.
The defeat continued a patchy start to the campaign for Jack Wilshere's side, who have recorded two wins, two draws and two losses. Their recent form shows one win in their last five league outings.
Attention now turns to preparing for Bradford without their manager on the sidelines. Luton will hope to replicate their last result against the Bantams, a 2-1 home victory back in February.
