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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

Webb announces tougher stance on set-piece grappling in Premier League

Summary

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.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•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.

Latest Updates

4:26 PMYahoo Sports — Referees chief Webb wants clamp-down on Premier League set-piece grappling

What they're saying

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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.
— Yahoo Sports

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