The FA Cup has witnessed several significant refereeing errors recently, highlighting the ongoing debate around the use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in football. Critics argue that while VAR can provide an additional layer of scrutiny to officiating decisions, the fundamental issue remains: the quality of refereeing itself must improve. For instance, during the latest matches, several crucial decisions were missed, leading to unfair outcomes and disappointment from players and fans alike.

The argument for VAR is supported by the observation that referees have been under significant scrutiny and face consequences for their mistakes that players and managers do not necessarily endure. Despite the protective shield that VAR is supposed to provide, referees often find themselves in a position of greater accountability. This disparity raises questions about the standards expected of referees compared to those of players and managers, leading to calls for a reevaluation of how officiating errors are treated in the media and by governing bodies.

Ultimately, this call for enhanced refereeing standards is not just about the individual performance of officials but also about the integrity of the sport. Without improvements in the refereeing profession, trust in the game's fairness can erode, leading to a less enjoyable experience for fans and players. Therefore, while VAR could assist in correcting some mistakes, it cannot substitute the need for well-trained and competent referees who can make crucial decisions in real-time effectively.