Keith Hackett baffled by Leeds United VAR decision in 6-1 Premier League loss v Liverpool
Former FIFA referee Keith Hackett was left fuming after Liverpool’s first goal was allowed to stand during the Reds’ 6-1 win over Leeds United.
Trent Alexander-Arnold appeared to handle the ball in the build-up to the goal, but the incident was not deemed to have a direct impact on Cody Gakpo’s finish.
Hackett has since reacted and was left baffled by Craig Pawson’s decision to not award a free-kick to the Whites.
“I find it difficult to understand why referee Pawson did not blow for a foul for handball in the build-up to Liverpool’s first goal,” said Hackett (via Twitter, 18 April).
“VAR should then have intervened. The handball was clear. It was NOT too far back in play. Come on, use common sense when making decisions.”
Remarkable
What exactly is the point of VAR? The Liverpool star has clearly handled the ball and it should be pulled back. Quite how that decision has been made is remarkable. Pawson should’ve seen the infringement and the goal shouldn’t have stood. It’s the latest in a long line of awful decisions from officials.
However, we are sure Leeds will be more than happy with the written apology which will be sent their way. More has to be done to prevent clear and obvious errors from being made, particularly in the Premier League.
Nonetheless, this decision wouldn’t have had a huge outcome on the result at Elland Road. The Reds were scintillating on the counterattack and caused Javi Gracia’s side all sorts of problems.
The last two matches are of real concern. The capitulation against Crystal Palace came out of nowhere and now the Whites are a team with very little confidence.
It does feel like this weekend’s fixture against Fulham could well make or break the 2022/23 season.
In other Leeds United news, even pundits who like nothing more than to wind up the club’s fans couldn’t understand how the goal was allowed.