The Premier League clash between Ipswich and Manchester United went on for several minutes without the use of VAR after Stockley Park was evacuated. Just after the 36-minute mark, referee Anthony Taylor bemusingly called a halt to the play, and called over team captains Sam Morsy and Bruno Fernandes.

With both players looking confused, Sky Sports commentator Peter Drury then explained what was going on.

"Well, what's happening here, is Anthony Taylor is having to call the captains together because we learn there is a fire alarm at Stockley Park," he said.

"VAR is not currently functional. There may be some of you who love that thought, back to the old days, it's all on the ref and his assistants now until further notice."

Co-commentator Alan Smith added "Watch now, we'll get his contentious decision." The situation continued for several minutes before Drury confirmed that normal proceedings had been resumed.

At the time of the development, United led 1-0 courtesy of Marcus Rashford scoring from Amad's cross less than two minutes in. By the time the system was up and running just before half time, Omari Hutchinson has equalised in spectacular style for Ipswich.

While the incident may have been unavoidable, it will undoubtedly lead to ridicule from fans and pundits already at odds with the use of video technology win football. And it comes on the weekend where VAR, and the PGMOL, were already in the spotlight for the wrong reasons.

After Leicester City were beaten 2-1 by Chelsea on Saturday, manager Steve Cooper was livid with referee Andrew Madley's for turning down penalty claims after Levi Colwill brought down Stephy Mavididi in the area. VAR assessed the incident, deciding to stay with Madley's on field-call.

Cooper reacted by saying he felt "sorry for Howard Webb" having to deal with the fallout from the game. Barely 24 hours later, the Welshman was sacked by Leicester.

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