In a closely contested Women's Super League London derby, Chelsea triumphed over Arsenal with a critical 84th-minute penalty awarded by referee Emily Heaslip. Lauren James was fouled by Kim Little, leading to Guro Reiten scoring the decisive goal. Despite slow-motion replays suggesting Little may have touched the ball before contact, VAR was unavailable, leaving the controversy intact. Arsenal's Katie McCabe received a red card after vehemently protesting the decision. Chelsea's victory keeps them undefeated this season and on course for their sixth consecutive WSL title, further highlighting the ongoing debate over officiating and technology in women's football.
The game had been a tight fixture but in the 84th minute referee Emily Heaslip gave Chelsea a penalty. Lauren James made a run into the box and Kim Little tackled her which saw James trip.
Replays in slow motion seem to show Little getting the ball before she made contact with James. Arsenal players protested but Heaslip stuck with her decision.
The technology is not used in the English women's top-flight mainly because the large majority of home grounds cannot support the technology. Financial constraints are also a factor with a large portion of referees in the WSL not full-time.
Sticking with her decision, Heaslip copped some criticism from Arsenal's Katie McCabe, who received a straight red card for her protests.
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