Meaning behind VAR’s cryptic four-word message to referee after controversial Chelsea decision made history
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VAR delivered a cryptic four-word message to referee Robert Jones before he made history during Chelsea's clash with Bournemouth. During the Tuesday night game at Stamford Bridge, Jones became the first PL referee to reject a red-card review at the pitch-side monitor.
![[Chelsea's Marc Cucurella and Bournemouth's David Brooks vying for the ball.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/chelseas-marc-cucurella-left-challenges-963756669.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Cherries star David Brooks had allegedly committed a foul on Marc Cucurella that was originally worthy of a red card while the score was 1-1. Jones was sent to the monitor for review with VAR Graham Scott to decide on the possible dismissal. However, Jones ultimately concluded that it was a yellow card, thus making history by rejecting the decision to send Brooks off.
![[VAR review of a possible red card for violent conduct in a Chelsea vs. Bournemouth match.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/david-brooks-clash-cucurella-chelsea-963762570.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Mail Sport have revealed that Scott told Jones, "It's in your gift", in relation to Jones having the final say on the matter. The report adds that refereeing sources explained all options - take no action, yellow or red card - were available to use, with Scott's comments a sentiment used by PGMOL in such scenarios.
![[Referee reviewing a soccer game on VAR.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/referee-robert-jones-checks-var-963775443.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Audio of the incident could be broadcast to fans on the Match Officials Mic'd Up show, hosted by ref chief Howard Webb. Bournemouth took a 2-1 lead following the incident before Reece James slammed home a stunning injury-time free-kick. The Blues had taken the lead through Cole Palmer and dominated most of the first half.
![[VAR review: checking possible red card for violent conduct.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/challenge-marc-cucurella-chelsea-picture-963797751.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS. However, Justin Kluivert equalised early in the second half from the penalty spot before Antoine Semenyo smashed home a near-post shot to take the lead. The result leaves Chelsea without a win in five league games, while Bournemouth are unbeaten in ten games across all competitions.
