Sunderland should not have had their opening goal allowed to stand in their win over Sheffield Wednesday, Keith Hackett has said.

The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that Eliezer Mayenda’s goal would have been ruled out for handball if VAR was in operation in the Championship.

Regis Le Bris’ side maintained their hopes of automatic promotion this season with a 2-1 victory against Sheffield Wednesday on Friday night (28 February).

However, there was more than an element of controversy about the first of those goals that put Sunderland in front.

Eliezer Mayenda handles as Black Cats go ahead

With Sunderland looking to bounce back after being denied a penalty in defeat to Hull last time out, it was Mayenda who scored twice to give his side a welcome win.

That has already led to the striker being hailed by teammate Wilson Isidor for that matchwinning contribution against the Owls.

The hosts though will have been left frustrated that his first goal was not ruled out, despite the ball clearly hitting Mayenda‘s arm as he it dropped out of the air and into his path.

Even so, it was allowed to stand by referee Will Finnie who seemingly did not spot the offence.

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