Webb announces tougher stance on set-piece grappling in Premier League
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 4:26 PM
Last updated Aug 19, 2026
Howard Webb, the referees' chief, has indicated that Premier League officials will take a firmer approach to grappling and holding during set-pieces as the new season begins. Webb highlighted that many offenses went unpunished last season, particularly during corners and free-kicks. While emphasizing the need for changes, he assured that officials will maintain a high threshold for contact to avoid disrupting game flow. VAR will now be able to check for attacking fouls at set-pieces, which could lead to retakes of goals or penalties. The initiative starts with Arsenal's match against Coventry at the Emirates Stadium on Friday.
- •Webb warns Premier League teams about new officiating standards for set-pieces.
- •More offenses at set-pieces are expected to be penalized this season.
- •VAR will now check for fouls during set-pieces, allowing for retakes.
- •Change in officiating aims to minimize unpunished grappling incidents.
- •Tougher regulations start with Arsenal's season opener against Coventry.
- 4:26 PMYahoo Sports — Referees chief Webb wants clamp-down on Premier League set-piece grappling
"Premier League clubs have been warned to expect a tougher stance from officials on grappling and holding at set-pieces in the new season.But Webb, a former Premier League and FIFA referee, doesn't want the flow of the game ruined by endless stoppages for fouls at set-pieces.
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