The ex-Premier League referee called the decision a "stonewall penalty" against Manchester United
Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher has weighed in on the contentious decision to award Liverpool a late penalty against Manchester United at Old Trafford. Despite the uproar from some quarters, Gallagher believes that Anthony Taylor and VAR made the correct call.
Liverpool awarded late penalty against Manchester United
With Manchester United holding onto a slender lead in the dying moments of the match, the pivotal incident occurred when Harvey Elliott was brought down in the penalty area by Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Anthony Taylor duly pointed to the spot, presenting Liverpool with a chance to salvage a crucial point in the Premier League title race.
Dermot Gallagher backs Anthony Taylor’s decision
Examining the incident, Dermot Gallagher offered his expert analysis on Sky Sports' Ref Watch. He emphasized that the challenge from Wan-Bissaka warranted a penalty, citing the contact made and Elliott's lack of initiation in the collision. Gallagher stated, "If you make a challenge like this, the expectation from me was penalty. People say 'is there a lot of contact?' Well he dives in, he definitely makes contact." He added, "My expectation was penalty and I think the decision is right."
Former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock echoed Gallagher's sentiments, dismissing arguments against the penalty decision. Warnock criticized those who contested the call, highlighting Wan-Bissaka's lack of protest and the consensus among Manchester United players that it was indeed a clear penalty. Warnock said, "I find it baffling. I've seen this all over social media, it's a lot of Man United saying it, but suggesting there's no contact."
Title Race Implications
Liverpool's late equalizer against Manchester United, courtesy of Mo Salah's converted penalty, proved crucial in the intense battle for the Premier League title. However, despite salvaging a point, Liverpool slipped up as both Manchester City and Arsenal secured victories in their respective fixtures.
As the Premier League title race heats up, the competition remains incredibly tight, with just one point separating the top three teams. The race for the championship promises to deliver thrilling encounters and high-stakes drama as the season reaches its climax.
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