During the Reds’ most recent match against Aston Villa, VAR overturned a Cody Gakpo goal
Liverpool’s chances of finishing in the top four are all but over after failing to beat Aston Villa on Saturday. Despite Roberto Firmino’s equalizer, which completed a perfect sendoff at Anfield, the Reds were unable to secure all three points.
It’s a draw that will feel like a loss for Liverpool, made worse by the fact that they were denied a goal earlier in the game following a lengthy VAR review. Cody Gakpo appeared to have leveled the score, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside.
Virgil van Dijk was indeed in an offside position when he played the ball in the build-up to the goal, but it had previously rebounded off Villa’s Ezri Konsa. Despite the fact that normal rules would have called van Dijk onside, it was determined to be a deflection rather than an intentional play.
Following the game, the Premier League issued the following statement: “Van Dijk was in an offside position from Luis Diaz’s header.” Referee John Brooks determined it was a deflection off Ezri Konsa, not a deliberate play, after the VAR recommended a review.”
Naturally, the decision did not sit well with Liverpool fans or Jurgen Klopp. Van Dijk has also spoken out about the situation and has made a request to Premier League officials moving forward.
“I have no idea [why it was ruled out] — I had no idea what was going on.” “I asked Michael Oliver [fourth official] on the side of the pitch, and apparently it was a question if the Villa player deliberately knocked it back or something, but I have no idea, yes or no,” he said after the game.
The centre-back then called for greater transparency in future decisions made by officials during matches.
“I think it would be good if we could hear what they discuss, everyone around it, and be transparent next season,” he continued. “They’ve come here [in the interview area] to explain themselves to you guys [the media].” That happened in Holland, so why not here in the Premier League?”
Leave a Reply