A CONTROVERSIAL CLASH OR A MISSED RED CARD IN MINGS’ ENCOUNTER WITH GAKPO?
Tyrone Mings was fortunate to avoid an outright dismissal after his notably controversial challenge on Cody Gakpo in a recent clash that left many perplexed. The heated exchange occurred during a 1-1 draw with Aston Villa, a game full of excitement and contention.
As the first half came to a close, Mings launched a high boot, striking Gakpo’s midriff with enough force to leave a visible stud mark. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp reacted to the lingering image of those marks. He expressed surprise after the game that the Aston Villa defender did not face harsher consequences, despite a VAR check from referee John Brooks. Klopp even made light of the situation, joking that Gakpo’s chest markings resembled a “very famous brand.”
A FORMER OFFICIAL’S OPINION
Former referee Dermot Gallagher gave his insightful perspective on the incident on Sky Sports News’ ‘Ref Watch’ segment, stating that Mings deserved more severe consequences. “I think it’s a red card there,” Gallagher says. He brings his boot up after he’s played the ball, so it’s face-to-face.”
This sparked a debate with ex-Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock, who questioned Gallagher on whether the visible wounds on Gakpo’s chest constituted sufficient evidence for a VAR assessment.
“The referee retains all options until he restarts,” Gallagher replied, demonstrating the game’s inherent flexibility. He emphasized that, despite having made an initial decision, the referee can always reconsider after receiving advice from assistants or the fourth official, or even VAR confirmation.
Gallagher’s admission of a refereeing error, using the benefit of replays, may come as a breath of fresh air to fans who have grown accustomed to former referees’ unwavering support for on-field decision-makers. The VAR team at Stockley Park conducted a quick investigation into this incident, which resulted in Mings retaining his booking.
THE REJECTED GOAL AND ITS AFTERMATH
To add to the confusion, referee Brooks disallowed Gakpo’s goal in the second half. The disputed decision, which wThis match result appears to have harmed Liverpool’s chances of qualifying for the Champions League next season, emphasizing the importance of such decisions so late in the season. The Reds now face Southampton in their final game of the 2022/23 season, with their sights set on Europa League participation next season.
as reviewed using a pitchside monitor, determined that the goal was offside, leaving fans perplexed and seeking clarification.
Gallagher weighed in again, this time supporting the disallowed goal decision, saying, “In law, Gakpo’s goal shouldn’t have stood, the officials got it right.” He acknowledged the difficult situation in which referees find themselves due to the subjective nature of such calls, saying, “It’s a very unfortunate part of the law that leaves the officials hamstrung.”
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