Wolves Set for FA Cup Showdown Against Bournemouth as Offside Technology Gets Historic Trial

Wolves Set for FA Cup Showdown Against Bournemouth as Offside Technology Gets Historic Trial** 

Wolves are gearing up for a crucial FA Cup Fifth Round clash against Bournemouth at the end of the month. After securing their place in the next stage by overcoming Blackburn Rovers, Vitor Pereira’s side will need to be at their very best to navigate past Andoni Iraola’s Cherries and secure a quarter-final spot. 

In the lead-up to this high-stakes encounter, English football’s governing bodies have announced a significant technological breakthrough set to debut in the competition—Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT). 

Semi-Automated Offside Technology to Make FA Cup Debut** 

A joint statement from the Premier League, FA, and PGMOL has confirmed that SAOT will be introduced for the first time in English competitive football during the FA Cup Fifth Round. The system, designed to improve accuracy and reduce delays in offside decisions, will be used across seven of the eight scheduled matches, with only Preston’s tie against Burnley missing out due to venue limitations. 

**“The FA Cup Fifth Round will also utilise SAOT in all seven matches taking place in Premier League stadiums, which is the first time it will be used live in competitive matches in English football,”** the FA announced. 

All matches in the round are scheduled for a 3 p.m. (UK time) kickoff on March 1st. 

### **Could the Premier League Be Next?** 

The introduction of SAOT in the FA Cup is seen as a testing ground for potential wider implementation. The joint statement hinted that, should the trial prove successful, the Premier League could adopt the technology before the end of the season. 

**“Following successful live operation in the FA Cup, the Premier League will look to implement the system later this season,”** the statement added. 

Football fans have long awaited this technological upgrade, particularly after seeing SAOT successfully used in the FIFA World Cup, where it streamlined officiating and enhanced the overall viewing experience. Given the stature and global influence of the Premier League, many have questioned why it has taken this long for SAOT to be introduced. However, with this latest development, it appears English football is finally catching up, and its full rollout could be just around the corner. 

As Wolves prepare for their pivotal clash with Bournemouth, they will also be part of a historic moment in English football’s evolution—one that could reshape how offside decisions are made in the future.