Liverpool heat Everton at Anfield last night, thanks to a controversial 57th minute goal from Diogo Jota.
Luis Diaz was offside in the build-up to the goal, and while he did not touch the ball, he appeared to impede James Tarkowski’s clearance.
There was controversy in the first half as well, when Tarkowski followed through on Alexis Mac Allister while clearing a ball. Referee Sam Barrott gave a yellow card, and although VAR had a look at the challenge, a red was not given.
However, PGMOL has since admitted to the mistake.
BBC Sport’s chief football news reporter, Simon Stone, said:
“The PGMOL has privately confirmed James Tarkowski should have been sent off during Everton’s defeat at Liverpool last night.
“Tarkowski was shown a yellow card for a reckless tackle on Alexis Mac Allister by on-field referee Sam Barrott during the game and this was confirmed after a VAR review that only lasted 10 seconds.
“The decision was widely condemned by a number of pundits and Everton manager David Moyes admitted Tarkowksi was fortunate to stay on the field.
“However, PGMOL sources now accept the challenge reached the threshold for serious foul play and VAR Paul Tierney should have upgraded the punishment to a red card.”
"For Paul Tierney not to give it on VAR is SHOCKING"
"That's a straight red, ALL DAY LONG"
No doubts from Jamie Carragher and Duncan Ferguson that James Tarkowski should have seen red for his challenge on Alexis Mac Allister ❌ pic.twitter.com/wqvNqqEurB
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 2, 2025
"The Reds BURST through on derby night!" 🎙️
Diogo Jota opens the scoring in the Merseyside derby in front of the Kop! 💥 pic.twitter.com/r2B3xRAfaa
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 2, 2025
When asked about the challenge, Liverpool boss Arne Slot said: “So many people gave their opinion and a lot of people who are not in favour of Liverpool were so clear about it.
“I would prefer to talk about Diogo’s goal or Curtis Jones’ performance at right full-back.
“Alexis is OK because he kept on playing. He’s used to something because he’s from South America. I think everybody has said something about it, so why should I add to it. It’s so obvious that it’s not necessary for me to comment.
“I’d prefer to talk about the goal or Curtis Jones’ performance or something else.”
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