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The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has privately conceded that Everton defender James Tarkowski should have been sent off for a reckless challenge on Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister during Wednesday’s Merseyside derby, reigniting debates over VAR consistency and refereeing standards in the Premier League.
The admission comes amid widespread condemnation of referee Sam Barrott and VAR official Paul Tierney’s decision to issue only a yellow card for a tackle labeled a “potential leg-breaker” by pundits.
The flashpoint occurred in the 11th minute at Anfield when Tarkowski lunged into a clearance, catching Mac Allister high on the left leg with his follow-through. Despite winning the ball initially, the Everton captain’s studs made forceful contact with the Argentine midfielder’s calf.
Behind closed doors, the refereeing body acknowledged the error, confirming to Liverpool and Everton that the tackle met the threshold for a red card under Law 12’s definition of serious foul play: “A tackle that endangers the safety of an opponent using excessive force.”
A full breakdown from Sky Sports read:
“PGMOL acknowledge that Everton defender James Tarkowski should have been issued with a red card in their fixture with Liverpool.”
“The challenge saw Tarkowski clearly play the ball initially, however, the nature of the follow-through met the threshold for serious foul play.”
“The referee felt the challenge was reckless in real time and the VAR then checked that on-field decision of a yellow card, deeming that the referee’s call was not a clear and obvious error.”
“However, the view of PGMOL is that a review should have been recommended and ultimately the original decision overturned.”
And now, it has emerged that Tiernay will operate as the VAR for the Manchester Derby at Old Trafford this coming weekend.
Despite this acknowledgment, Tierney has been assigned to another high-profile fixture rather than facing any temporary removal from duties.
While he was already cast into this role before the Merseyside derby, the fact that PGMOL have not removed him can be considered a brave move.
The decision not to temporarily remove Tierney from high-profile assignments contrasts with previous PGMOL practices. In April 2023, referee Michael Salisbury was “axed for the next round of Premier League fixtures” after failing to recommend a penalty review in a Brighton match, with PGMOL chief Howard Webb issuing an apology to the affected club.
The Manchester derby represents one of the season’s most significant fixtures, with implications for Champions League qualification.
The appointment of Tierney for such a consequential match just days after a widely criticized performance has certainly raised some eyebrows to say the least.
It remains to be seen if the Premier League will opt to remove Tierney ahead of Sunday’s clash.
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