The Premier League has appointed Jarred Gillett as the referee for the highly anticipated match between Aston Villa and Newcastle United at Villa Park on Saturday. The game is expected to be a crucial encounter in the battle for a Champions League spot, with Newcastle currently holding a five-point lead over Villa.
Gillett’s appointment may not sit well with Villa fans, given his previous controversies. In a recent match between Villa and Brentford, Gillett was involved in several contentious decisions, including denying Brentford two potential penalties. Thomas Frank, the Brentford manager, expressed his frustration with one of the decisions, describing it as a “big, big penalty.”
Despite the controversy, Gillett has experience refereeing both teams, having overseen two matches involving Newcastle and two involving Aston Villa. Notably, Gillett awarded Newcastle penalties in both of their matches this season, including a 1-1 draw with Manchester City and a 4-3 win over Nottingham Forest.
The match between Aston Villa and Newcastle United promises to be an exciting encounter, given the high stakes and the history between the two teams. In their last five meetings, 20 goals have been scored, with Newcastle winning four of those matches. The Magpies will look to continue their winning streak, having secured six consecutive victories, including home wins against Manchester United and Crystal Palace.
Aston Villa, on the other hand, will aim to bounce back from their Champions League exit to PSG on Tuesday night. Despite the disappointment, Villa’s performance against PSG will give Newcastle something to worry about on Saturday if they can replicate that level of intensity.
The referee’s team for the match will include Lee Betts and Sian Massey-Ellis as assistant referees, with Farai Hallam as the fourth official. Semi-automated offside technology will be used, and VAR will be handled by Michael Salisbury and Derek Eaton.
In conclusion, the appointment of Jarred Gillett as the referee for the Aston Villa vs Newcastle United match has raised eyebrows, given his previous controversies. However, his experience refereeing both teams makes him a suitable choice for this high-stakes encounter. The match promises to be an exciting and intense battle, with both teams vying for a crucial win in their quest for a Champions League spot.
As the teams prepare to face off at Villa Park, the stakes are high, and the tension is palpable. Will Newcastle continue their winning streak, or will Aston Villa bounce back from their Champions League exit? The outcome remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – it will be a thrilling encounter that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
With the referee’s team in place and the semi-automated offside technology ready, the stage is set for a dramatic and intense match. The players will need to be at their best, and the referees will need to make accurate decisions to ensure a fair outcome. Ultimately, the team that emerges victorious will take a significant step towards securing a Champions League spot, making this match a must-watch for football fans everywhere.