Ex-referee Dermot Gallagher challenged after VAR’s ‘absolute mess’ in Tottenham vs Liverpool
The controversial ‘offside’ goal by Luis Diaz in Liverpool’s clash with Tottenham Hotspur has ignited a heated debate in the footballing world. Ex-Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock and former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher found themselves at odds over the decision.
Diaz believed he had given Liverpool the lead in the first half, but the on-field linesman raised his flag, signalling offside. However, a swift VAR check revealed that Diaz had actually been a yard onside when Mohamed Salah delivered the pass.
Despite the clear evidence, VAR assistant Darren England informed on-field referee Simon Hooper that the on-field decision to disallow the goal stood correct because he believed it had already been given as a goal. This decision set the stage for a dramatic turn of events in the match.
There was substantial evidence for Luis Diaz’s “offside goal” to stand.
Spurs capitalized on the controversy, scoring just two minutes after the disallowed goal and later netting a 96th-minute winner through a Joel Matip own goal. The game ended in a heart-wrenching defeat for Jurgen Klopp’s nine-man Liverpool, as both Curtis Jones and Diogo Jota received red cards.
On Sky Sports’ Ref Watch, where controversial refereeing decisions are scrutinized, Dermot Gallagher expressed his view that the VAR team had made a grave mistake. Here is what Gallagher explained via football.london:
“I think it was a lack of focus, a lack of judgment by the VAR. They didn’t check what the on-field decision was and subsequently made the decision based on what he thought rather than what he was told. He told the referee to restart the game, and once that happened, the damage was done. Oh 100% [it was the wrong call], there’s no doubt about that.”
While the debate rages on, it’s essential for fans and players alike to remember that some things are beyond their control. Dwelling on the past can hinder progress and distract from the upcoming challenges.
Simon Hooper had a frustrating night officiating the game between Tottenham and Liverpool.
The focus should now shift to the next game, as every point and performance matters in a competitive league like the English top-tier.
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At this moment in time, it is crucial to let bygones be bygones and channel energy into what can remain influenced, which is the team’s future performance. Spurs must remain resilient and determined, leaving the contentious decisions in the past and moving forward with a strong sense of purpose.
