That was the blunt assessment published by Hércules on social media alongside alternate-angle footage of the incident at the Estadio Rico Pérez in Alicante. The match ended in a 0-0 draw.
The 94th-Minute Hand Ball That Left Supporters Stunned
The controversy unfolded in the 94th minute with the score tied 0-0. Forward Fran Sol fired a close-range shot toward the goal from the edge of the small area that was blocked when Álvarez appeared like Superman: extending his arm and clearing the ball with his hand to prevent it from ending in a goal.
Why the Venue’s Technology Setup Prevented Correction
The match official and his assistant failed to penalize the blatant handball on the pitch. The competition utilizes the Football Video Support system, known popularly as the economic VAR—a measure incorporated since the former Segunda B was renamed Primera RFEF to advance toward a more professional category. This action like Superman, with the arm extended to prevent the ball from continuing its path, ended up becoming one of those plays that explain the limits of a system that aims to bring technology to football without becoming a conventional VAR. Instead of off-site officials reviewing every major incident, the on-field review relies entirely on coaches formally requesting checks using limited team challenges.
Strict Protocols of the Economic VAR
Under the Primera RFEF protocol, each team receives two challenge opportunities per match. To initiate a review, coaching staffs must hand a physical card to the fourth official immediately after an incident and before the match restarts. If the subsequent decision of the referee proves the team that requested it right, it keeps that consultation; if he maintains his initial decision, it loses it. Reviews can be carried out on goal or no-goal plays, potential red cards, identity confusions, and potential penalties.
Hércules had already exhausted both of its allocated challenges earlier in the match.
The Impact on Standings at Estadio Rico Pérez
The final whistle confirmed a 0-0 draw, awarding Real Jaén a single point while leaving Hércules frustrated over missed opportunities to secure their second home victory of the season at the Estadio Rico Pérez.
The controversial finish highlights the structural limitations of the league’s review framework, where visible infractions can go unexamined solely because a team’s challenge quota is empty.
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