Liverpool’s match against Leicester was marked by two controversial VAR decisions that prompted official statements from the Premier League.
Both incidents in the second half led to lengthy checks, with fans at Anfield expressing their frustration through audible boos.
The first review confirmed Curtis Jones’ goal after Mohamed Salah was adjudged to have remained onside in the build-up.
The second lengthy VAR check upheld an initial offside decision against Darwin Nunez, which had resulted in Cody Gakpo’s third goal being disallowed.
Liverpool moved further clear at the top of the table
PA
The Premier League moved swiftly to issue clarifying statements for both decisions.
The first VAR incident occurred when Jones slotted in from close range after receiving a centre from Alexis Mac Allister.
Initial concerns arose over Mohamed Salah’s position in the build-up to the goal.
Officials conducted a painstaking review, examining the positions of both Salah and Virgil van Dijk before confirming the goal.
The Premier League issued a statement via their official account, stating: “The referee’s call of goal was checked and confirmed by the VAR as Salah was in an onside position in the build-up.”
The statement was subsequently displayed on the Anfield scoreboard to inform the attending supporters.
Arne Slot’s side had to come back from a goal down
REUTERS
Leicester had taken an early lead at a foggy Anfield through Jordan Ayew, who scored after just six minutes.
The hosts, who entered the match as heavy favourites, were looking to extend their lead at the top of the table.
Liverpool’s opportunity came following Chelsea’s earlier defeat at home.
Cody Gakpo brought Liverpool level with a fine strike just before half-time with Jones putting Liverpool ahead shortly after the restart.
Liverpool were about to celebrate a third when Gakpo found the net from Salah’s cross, but his celebrations were cut short by the linesman’s flag.
Another lengthy VAR check ensued, focusing first on Salah’s position before moving on to Nunez’s position.
LATEST SPORT NEWS:
Cody Gakpo was the star of the show for Liverpool
REUTERS
The delay prompted more boos from the Anfield crowd as they awaited the decision.
The Premier League confirmed the on-field decision with a statement: “The referee’s call of no goal was checked and confirmed by the VAR as Nunez was in an offside position in the build-up.”
The initial offside decision was upheld, denying Liverpool their third goal.
But Liverpool grabbed their third a few minutes later with Salah getting on the scoresheet to make sure of all three points for the hosts.
Post comments (0)