Explained: Why there was no VAR for part of Man Utd’s game at Ipswich as Stockley Park fire alarm impacts Premier League proceedings at Portman Road

During the first half of Ipswich's encounter with United at Portman Road on Sunday, VAR was not in operation as Marcus Rashford and Omari Hutchinson got on the scoresheet for the two respective teams. It was back up and running for the second half but why was it not working for a period in the opening 45 minutes?

It has been revealed that there was a fire alarm at Stockley Park, the Premier League's VAR hub, during the first half of the fixture. Referee Anthony Taylor explained the situation to captains Sam Morsy and Bruno Fernandes and managers Ruben Amorim and Kieran McKenna. Moreover, Ipswich's goal came during the time when VAR wasn't in use.

VAR was introduced in the 2019-20 Premier League season after clubs voted unanimously in November 2018 to have the system in place. Ever since, many have criticised its impact on the game and the officials using it.

After this match, Ipswich are next in Premier League action away to Nottingham Forest next Saturday whereas United host Bodo/Glimt in their upcoming Europa League match on Thursday.