13 Aug Brand new Bar Assistant Referee launched to coincide with the new season of the Premier League
A brand new B.A.R (Bar Assistant Referee) system has today been unveiled by pub company and brewer Greene King. Using cameras, HD screens and an independent referee, B.A.R can review the pouring of pints in pub, ensuring perfection every time.
The world first creation is modelled on the VAR system used throughout the Premier League, in which a qualified referee watches match footage on a number of screens. Thanks to slow motion replays and multiple camera angles, the independent official can review footage and advise the on-field referee on goal decisions.
Greene King’s B.A.R uses the same principles, capturing footage of pints being poured in pub – which is then reviewed from multiple angles by an independent referee to officiate on glass angle, beer quality and pour technique.
What’s more, video footage is simultaneously displayed on screen throughout the pub, allowing pub goers to review the action in real time before a decision on the quality of the pint is made.
Former professional footballer Darren Bent teamed up with the leading pub company and brewer to trial the new system at The Finery, in central London this week.
Over ten years ago, Bent made headlines for his infamous beach ball goal against Liverpool, when his shot deflected off a rogue inflatable on the pitch before hitting the back of the net.
At the time, there was no VAR system in place to review controversial goals, as the system wasn’t introduced until 2018.
Former professional footballer Darren Bent said: “Ever since VAR was first introduced, there’s been a huge amount of inconsistency with decision making, resulting in some seriously controversial calls over the years.
“There’s a huge number of people that believe VAR has no place on the pitch, but I’m delighted to say the same doesn’t apply to the new B.A.R system.
“Pouring a perfect pint takes skill, and, thanks to the new system, the crowd here at The Finery can watch the masters at work in real time. Everything from the angle of the pour, to the quality of the head on the pint is captured in minute detail thanks to B.A.R.”
