EPL Introduces Semi-Automatic Offside Technology

The pinnacle of the beautiful game has not been a stranger to adapting to the times and implementing technology. The use of cameras has not only amplified the entertainment of it all but also made making calls for refs easier and more accurate.

EP clubs have unanimously voted to incorporate semi-automatic offside technology (SAOT). What exactly is this offside technology, and why is it so necessary that it’s implemented now? Let’s take a look.

What is Semi-Automatic Offside Technology?

The SAOT system the EPL intends to introduce will use tracking software and several cameras to calculate the position of players at the moment of a potential offside. In essence, this technology will replace the need for VAR teams to do the calculations in order to save time during the games.

During trials, SAOT has shown that it has the potential to reduce the average time taken for a VAR to make a decision by up to 31 seconds so far.

When will Semi-Automatic Offside Technology be used in the EPL?

While similar technology is currently being used in other leagues, EPL’s offside technology will not be used in the upcoming 2024/2025 season. According to sources, the company will not be ready to provide the SAOT in August because it needs additional testing.

There have been extensive trials carried out during the current season but, the new technology which is set to replace Hawk Eye, just will not be available until after one of the three autumn international breaks. There has been no confirmation as of yet if it was introduced in September, October or November. Of course, the Premier League wants to be 100% sure of the reliability.

Why did the EPL decide to introduce Semi-Automatic Offside Technology?

As of yet, the Premier League’s VAR officials use Hawk-Eye in order to check offsides, but it’s faced criticism for perceived errors and the time it takes officials to come to a decision. Not only is it an issue for the officials, but it leaves fans who are watching the game live in the stadium feeling in the dark due to there being no replays.

The Semi-Automatic Offside Technology has been brought in to help provide quicker and consistent placement of the virtual offside line. This will be based on optical player tracking and will also produce high-quality broadcast 3D graphics, which will also ensure an enhanced broadcast and in-stadium experience for fans.

Is SAOT being used in any other leagues?

SAOT has already been used in Serie A and the Champions League. While not exactly the same system, SAOT was also used in the World Cup in Qatar in 2022 using a chip that was embedded inside the matchday ball.

How accurate is the Semi-Automatic Offside Technology?

To increase the confidence of officials in making decisions, the SAOT technology has to be pretty accurate, and it also increases the likelihood that no potential offsides are being missed. Extensive testing and analysis are set to be carried out during the upcoming season to ensure the new technology is accurate.

While it is incredibly accurate, if there ever were to be a technological fault, backup systems are in place. A manual crosshair placement will still be available for games. The referees will also still need to make official calls regarding subjective elements. For example, they will need to decide if a player in an offside position is interfering with play.

What are some pros and cons of using the Semi-Automatic Offside Technology?

Whenever there is a major change in the workings of such a supported sport, there will definitely be some constructive criticism. Here are some of the pros and cons of SAOT in the EPL.

Pros

• This technology can cut down decision-making time by 30 seconds and will hopefully minimise those long delays
• SOAT can help VAR officials make more accurate calls, and already, the amount of major mistakes has been significantly reduced
• SOAT can provide more insight for supporters when it comes to offside decisions, which translates to more interactions

Cons

• While the technology is accurate, it’s not without its limitations, as it will only alert the VAR room if the ball is touched

Final Thoughts

The plans are in action, and hopefully, with the introduction of SAOT we’ll experience less time wasted on making decisions and even more action on the field. So, SAOT is sure to optimise not only the game but the supporter’s experience too. One thing it can’t do is help you predict the champions for the season, so for the best tips on upcoming EPL games check out Ladbrokes for the best experience when betting.