Liverpool’s Boxing Day Clash Against Burnley: Officials Announced
The officials for Liverpool’s upcoming Boxing Day match against Burnley have been named, and their history with the Reds is worth noting. The referee and VAR have previously been involved in controversial incidents while officiating Liverpool games.
Referee Paul Tierney Takes Charge
Paul Tierney will be the referee for the match, accompanied by assistants Marc Perry and Scott Ledger. Graham Scott will serve as the fourth official. Tierney has only officiated one Liverpool game this season, which was the 4-3 victory against Tottenham at Anfield. The match resulted in Jurgen Klopp receiving a touchline ban. However, Liverpool’s recent 3-0 win against Brentford was a smoother affair for both the referee and the manager.
Simon Hooper as Video Assistant Referee
Simon Hooper will be the video assistant referee (VAR) for the Boxing Day fixture. Hooper’s most notable involvement with Liverpool was during the Tottenham vs. Liverpool match, where Luis Diaz had a wrongly disallowed goal for offside. Although Hooper cannot be solely blamed for that decision, there were other controversial calls during the game, including the dismissals of Diogo Jota and Curtis Jones. However, Liverpool had a more positive experience with Hooper in charge during their 2-0 victory against Sheffield United.
Liverpool Aiming for Top Spot
Liverpool enters the Boxing Day fixture with the opportunity to claim the top spot in the Premier League, at least temporarily. A win against Burnley would put them ahead of Arsenal, who have a chance to regain the lead in their match against West Ham two days later.
Controversial Officiating Decisions
Throughout the season, Liverpool has faced questionable officiating decisions. In their recent match against Arsenal, they were denied a penalty for Martin Odegaard’s handball. Jurgen Klopp expressed his confusion and frustration with the decision, questioning how it was not considered a handball upon VAR review.
Despite these concerns, Liverpool fans hope that the focus will be on the football itself after the Boxing Day clash with Burnley.