Liverpool’s Controversial Disallowed Goal: Concerns and Reactions

Liverpool faced a significant setback during their match against Manchester City when a goal by Virgil van Dijk was disallowed. The incident occurred in the 38th minute, where Van Dijk headed a corner into the net, only for referee Chris Kavanagh to rule it out. This decision was later upheld by video assistant referee Michael Oliver, who confirmed that Andrew Robertson was in an offside position and obstructed the goalkeeper’s line of sight.

In light of this controversial decision, Liverpool has reached out to the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) and refereeing chief Howard Webb to express their serious concerns. According to reports by The Athletic, the club contests that the ruling to disallow the goal was not subjective and argues that Robertson did not interfere with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma’s ability to play the ball. Liverpool is also dissatisfied with the VAR process, believing that the necessary checks and balances were not adequately applied, which could have resulted in a different outcome.

Manager Arne Slot openly questioned the integrity of the officiating, stating, “I believe it’s clear that the wrong decision was made, in my opinion. Robertson did not interfere with the goalkeeper. Referring to a similar situation from the previous season, where a last-minute winner for Manchester City was allowed, he noted that the linesman’s prompt response in that instance highlighted inconsistencies in officiating that could have positively influenced Liverpool’s performance. “Had the goal stood, it might have changed the dynamics of the game, especially given our lackluster performance in the first half.”

Despite the controversy surrounding the disallowed goal, Liverpool ultimately lost the match 3-0, marking their fifth defeat of the Premier League season. Pundit Roy Keane criticized Liverpool’s current state, describing them as being “in crisis” and labeling their performance against Manchester City as weak, particularly after significant summer investments.

The upcoming international break offers Slot and his team an opportunity to regroup, as they find themselves eight points behind league leaders Arsenal. Liverpool’s next challenge will be against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League, followed by a Champions League match against PSV.