Nine of the best jokes after ‘ghost goal’ shambles denies Sheffield United victory at Aston Villa

A farcical technological breakdown cost Sheffield United victory at Aston Villa in a huge blow for their Champions League hopes.
Aston Villa goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland carries the ball over the line as Sheffield United players appeal (pic: Paul Ellis/PA Wire/NMC Pool)Aston Villa goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland carries the ball over the line as Sheffield United players appeal (pic: Paul Ellis/PA Wire/NMC Pool)
Aston Villa goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland carries the ball over the line as Sheffield United players appeal (pic: Paul Ellis/PA Wire/NMC Pool)

Given the importance of last night’s goal that never was, it’s no surprise that many Blades fans failed to see the funny side of both Hawk-Eye and VAR malfunctioning as the ball clearly crossed the goal line.

The blame game - Top referees have say on Sheffield United's ghost goal as Kevin Gage questions Hawk-Eye technology after gaffe at Aston Villa

But some found humour amid the despair, with jokes referencing everything from Friends to Harry Potter doing the rounds.

Here are some of the best.