Chelsea will play under the new semi-automated offside system introduced by the Premier League when they take on Ipswich Town at Stamford Bridge on April 13. This technology will be rolled out across the Premier League on April 12, having already been trialled in FA Cup fixtures this season. It has also undergone non-live testing in the top division.
The Premier League said in a statement:
Semi-automated offside technology automates key elements of the offside decision-making process to support the video assistant referee (VAR). It provides more efficient placement of the virtual offside line, using optical player tracking, and generates virtual graphics to ensure an enhanced in-stadium and broadcast experience for fans.
The technology maintains the integrity of the process while enhancing the speed, efficiency, and consistency of offside decision-making. The Premier League has worked in collaboration with PGMOL and sports data and technology company Genius Sports to develop the new semi-automated offside technology system.
Chelsea’s meeting with Ipswich is one of seven league matches for which the system will be in place. Some key fixtures lie ahead, including home games with Everton (April 26) and Liverpool (May 4). They also have a trip to St James’ Park to face Newcastle United on May 10.
As the Blues chase a spot in the Champions League next season, fans will be on the lookout for the impact of semi-automated offside decisions in these fixtures.
Chelsea Gear Up for Spurs Clash as Premier League Run-in Begins
Chelsea are back in Premier League action on Thursday when they take on Tottenham at Stamford Bridge. This is the start of an important run for the Blues, who are fourth in the table and chasing Champions League qualification in Enzo Maresca’s debut campaign.
Ending in fifth place could secure a path into Europe’s premier competition contingent on UEFA coefficients. However, the Blues want to eliminate any doubt by nailing down a place in the top four. Their run-in consists of nine matches that starts with the Spurs clash.
Maresca’s squad has been given a timely boost, with Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson, and Noni Madueke all back in training after recent injury lay-offs. Their presence might just be enough to get the Blues through what could be a rather dramatic end to the season.
