Liverpool scored in the 100th minute to win 3-2 at Newcastle United in one of the most dramatic games in Premier League history but the performance of the referee has been criticised
17:48, 26 Aug 2025
VAR
There has been calls to launch a probe into the heated clash
Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett has demanded a probe into the Newcastle United versus Liverpool clash to determine why the match featured so many interruptions.
Liverpool netted in the 100th minute to secure a dramatic 3-2 triumph at St James' Park in what amounted to a classic smash-and-grab victory for the champions.
Despite the thrills surrounding the encounter and Newcastle's spirited display with 10 men following Anthony Gordon's dismissal, criticism has emerged regarding the stop-start character of the fixture.
Data reveals 32 fouls were awarded during the contest, in which Newcastle also saw three players succumb to injury.
Opta figures additionally demonstrate the ball remained in play for just 40.8 percent of the match, marking the lowest figure for a Premier League encounter in 15 years, since Stoke City defeated Blackburn Rovers in February 2020, reports Chronicle Live.
Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool reacts after being fouled by Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United, which results in a red card following a VAR review to upgrade to the initial yellow card during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Liverpool at St James' Park on August 25, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England.
Anthony Gordon was sent off during the heated clash(Image: George Wood, Getty Images)
Hackett maintains these statistics are unacceptable and has urged the Premier League to launch an inquiry, though he believes referee Simon Hooper bears no responsibility.
Speaking to Football Insider, he stated: "This is frankly an unacceptable stat – it fails to deliver value for money to the paying fans.
"I would recommend that the Premier League launch an investigation to determine where time was lost.
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"Hooper is an official who likes to keep his interventions to a minimum and create a good game flow.
"I would suggest that he is not to blame, but clearly can greatly influence the amount of game-time by ensuring the appropriate amount of added time is applied.
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"The game has a problem that cannot be overlooked – the Premier League must investigate."