Image Credits: Imago Images
The Reds were on the wrong end of two controversial calls on Thursday evening.
Liverpool slumped to a disappointing 0-0 draw against Leeds United at Anfield on Thursday evening as the Reds continue to show real signs of inconsistency this season.
Despite dominating possession, Arne Slot’s men were nowhere near good enough on the night and failed to break through the opposition.
Liverpool did extend their unbeaten run to eight games, but there is a general agreement that the performances need to be improved.
It ended goalless on the night, but the game was not without drama.
There was one incident in particular that infuriated the players and fans.
Hugo Ekitike was pulled by Leeds defender Jaka Bijol but he stayed on his feet, a decision that appeared to sway the referee.
Many deemed it as a clear penalty, but the call was waved away and play went on.
Speaking on Sky Sports’ Ref Watch, former official Dermot Gallagher provided more clarification on the incident as he delivered his verdict.
“I watched this live and looked at it and thought, ‘this is exactly why players go down,’ because in my view, if Ekitike goes down, I think not only is that a penalty, but Bijol is sent off because he has grabbed him and grabbed him and grabbed him.”
“But he stays on his feet and gets a shot away and that makes it a much more difficult decision for the referee, but if he hits the ground, the whole landscape changes.”
Former player Jay Bothroyd was also on Ref Watch that night, and he agreed with Gallagher.
“I completely agree. You do not get rewarded for honesty and that is the problem, and because players are not getting rewarded, like Ekitike there, who is trying to be strong and stay on his feet, I would be telling him, If that happens again, fall on the floor and go down,’ as that way you are asking the officials to make a decision.”
“And everyone knows it is a foul, they got away with it and it would have been a red card as he stopped a goalscoring opportunity.”
The draw against Leeds United leaves Liverpool within the top four, but with Chelsea breathing down their necks, they will view it as an opportunity missed to widen the gap.
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.