Howard Webb Backs Decision to Deny Liverpool Penalty Against Man City
In a recent episode of Mic’d Up, PGMOL chief Howard Webb expressed his support for the decision not to award Liverpool a last-minute penalty in their match against Manchester City. The incident in question occurred during the 1-1 draw at Anfield two weeks ago, when Jeremy Doku appeared to catch Alexis Mac Allister in the chest with a raised boot in the penalty box. Referee Michael Oliver waved play on, and after a VAR check, the on-field decision stood.
Controversy surrounded the incident due to its timing, happening in the 98th minute of a match between two Premier League title-rivals who are separated by just one point, with Arsenal also in the mix. Jurgen Klopp, the manager of Liverpool, was visibly frustrated by the decision.
Webb acknowledged the divisive nature of the incident but believes that both the referee and VAR acted correctly. He explained that if the referee had given the penalty on the field, it would have been confirmed by VAR. Similarly, by not awarding the penalty, the decision stood. Webb pointed out that Doku lifted his foot to play the ball and made contact with it. There was also some contact on Mac Allister, who was not playing the ball either. Webb stated that it would have been “checked complete” either way and emphasized that VAR should stay out of situations that are not clear.
Webb’s explanation may provide some clarity, but it is unlikely to appease Klopp, who firmly believes that Liverpool should have been awarded a penalty, potentially leading to a victory. He argued that the challenge on Mac Allister was a clear foul and should have resulted in a yellow card. According to Klopp, it is a penalty for all football fans around the world.
The controversy surrounding this incident highlights the ongoing debate about VAR’s role in making decisions. Klopp questioned whether VAR should focus solely on making the correct decision without considering how high the bar should be to overturn a decision. He believes that if it is a foul anywhere else on the pitch, it should be a penalty.
Ultimately, the decision not to award Liverpool a penalty stands, and both teams had to settle for a 1-1 draw. The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in refereeing decisions and the subjective nature of certain situations.
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